As Earth Day approaches, it’s important to remember that everyone can play a role in helping the climate. From individuals to companies and countries, we all have a responsibility to make a difference.
One of the simplest and least expensive ways to help the environment is through recycling. While most people recognize the importance of recycling, participation and recycling rates still can be improved.
According to a study by the Carton Council, 95% of consumers think recycling is important and that everyone should do their part. To help consumers become more diligent recyclers, here are some tips based on the research:
- Make a Plan: Ensure that recycling is convenient for your household by having containers readily available in rooms where recyclable packages are consumed. Also, know your collection days and have enough storage to hold the recyclables until that collection day.
- Remind Yourself: Create reminders throughout your house, such as refrigerator magnets or handwritten notes, to prompt you about collection day or to help you stick to your recycling plan.
- Be a Leader: One person can inspire others to recycle. Use social media to brag about your recycling and tag your local community recycling program, homeowner’s association and even the Carton Council.
- Don’t Judge a Book By Its Cover: Look to your community’s website for what can and can’t be recycled where you live. Acceptable items can vary depending on the program, and a little dirt or a misshapen recyclable should still go in your recycling container unless it’s covered in peanut butter or melted cheese.
- Feel Good About Your Efforts: Recognize that your recycling makes an impact. If no one recycled, there would be no recycled content to make new products. For example, 30 recycled food and beverage cartons are used to make a sustainable ceiling tile. A ton of paper made from recycled fibers conserves 7,000 gallons of water and 17-31 trees.
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