Protect the Earth by Recycling
Although most people are aware that recycling keeps an overwhelming amount of trash out of precious landfill space, few know the extent of the materials that can be recycled. Most municipal recycling programs still accept only glass, certain plastics, paper, and cardboard, but recycling is now a big business in the United States with more people employed in various forms of recycling than in the auto industry. Take a look, and be surprised at what is in demand in the recycling industry.
Did you know that some athletic shoes are now accepted by their manufacturer for recycling? That old wine bottle corks are being turned into cork tiles and blue jeans recycled into insulation to save on heating costs surprises many people. There are unique businesses blossoming across the country that require a new form of raw materials, used products, from old CDs to packing peanuts. Despite not being accepted by community recycling centers, many of these items are in demand, and it just takes just a few minutes of time to mail them to the appropriate company or drop them off at a collection center.
Plastics are reprocessed and used for everything from weatherproof lumber to warm clothing, but one plastic that municipal recycling centers have rarely accepted is number five plastic that yogurt and cottage cheese containers are made of. The bane of most conscientious recycles, number five plastics are now wanted by a company that turns this plastic into tableware, toothbrushes, and cutting boards and kitchen storage containers. Look for a Gimme 5 drop-off to help the environment.
Computers, printers, and ink cartridges are now commonly accepted by office supply stores, computer and printer manufacturers, and others. If a computer or printer still works, donate it to a school, community organization, or charity. Computers and other electronics contain precious metals and valuable components along with hazardous waste, and recycling saves all of this from going into landfills. Several computer manufacturers accept old computers and printers, but there are also independent recycling centers that break down the computers, recycling each component. It does take time and research to find acceptable recycling companies, but it is certainly worth the effort to help protect the earth. Printer ink cartridges are easier to recycle; many schools have programs to earn rewards and some office supply stores will discount new ink or give other compensation.
Think long and hard before tossing away anything. Food garbage can be composted, eyeglasses donated for reuse, and even crayon stubs can find a new use!
