By Wanda Meredith
Recycle Hi-Line Chair 

Re-purpose and Recycle: a New Year's resolution you can keep

 

January 11, 2017

Each year, many of us resolve to lose weight, floss more, and better ourselves in some way. This year, why not resolve to be kinder and gentler to our planet? Join us in making some New Year's Recycling Resolutions that can help save the planet, prevent climate change and all that jazz. You may find it's much easier (and more sustainable) than other resolutions you might make.

It's not about feeling bad if you have to throw something in the trash. But it is about being conscious of the entire recycling process. Think about what you're buying and where it will ultimately end up. A good question to ask at that point: Is there any way to buy something more environmentally-friendly or made of recycled content? Think of it like this: getting materials from the mines or from forests, processing them into materials and then turning them into products is greater than the environmental and energy impact of collecting those products, processing them and using them as raw materials to make new products.

Some things just can't be used again, and were never intended to be reused. Can you imagine how wonderful it would be if this wasn't the case? If every single thing you used and bought could be reused and recycled? No matter how creative one individual can be in recycling and reducing their waste, as a consumer-based society we're just not at that advanced stage.

It's never too late to begin taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint. In 2017, strive to reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle. Here are some simple tips for cutting down on waste in the New Year.

1. Go paperless. If you haven't already, let the New Year motivate you to finally make the switch from mailed bills and bank statements to a greener, digital format. If you've been getting unwanted advertising mail and catalogs that you don't need, take the steps to take your name off those mailing lists.

2. Start composting. Now is the best time to start a compost in your yard or even indoors for your plant based food waste. There is a local composting business that takes leaves and lawn clippings that are free of trash and weed killers.

3. Ban Styrofoam. If you need disposable plates, opt for something more recyclable. You could also try suggesting that your favorite takeout place switch to something more environmentally friendly.

4. Bagless is better. You've heard it before, but this year, take action. Shop with reusable bags beyond the grocery store. Remember to bring bags with you when you go to department and hardware stores, clothing retailers and everywhere else you shop!

Bags that collapse into small pouches can be easily thrown into a purse or jacket pocket.

5. Cut down on vampire energy. When you're not using one of your many electronic devices, unplug them.

6. BYOC: Bring your own cup or container. Coffee shops are unlikely to object to filling your washable to-go cups, and while your waiter might look askance at the to-go container you've brought from home, you can rest easy knowing every little bit helps.

7. Recycle Christmas cards by bringing them to the next recycle drive, or use them to make a holiday star or gift tags for next year's presents.

8. Make space for your new stuff- hit up on-line yard sales, Craigslist, ecycler, and The Freecycle Network to give away or sell your old items. Need something? These sites are also great for good deals on used items.

9. Buy in bulk to avoid excess packaging. For example, buy juice, snacks and other lunch items in bulk and use reusable containers to bring them to school or work.

10. Reduce waste by purchasing durable goods and reusing, repairing, sharing, and donating items instead of throwing them away.

Take the steps necessary to be the best recycler you can be, and then consider lobbying others to do the same. Check out our website at recyclehiline.org. Underlying the need for recycling is the understanding that conservation of resources is important and each person has an impact on the planet.

Recycle Hi-Line would like to thank each and every individual and business who does their part in decreasing their mark on our Earth. The idea is to make the landfill a last resort. We at Recycle Hi-Line would like to encourage you to make recycling part of your New Year's resolutions. We can all make a difference.

 
 

Powered by ROAR Online Publication Software from Lions Light Corporation
© Copyright 2024

Rendered 01/31/2024 13:33