Resolution to Recycle

My resolution for 2013 is to practice the 3 R's.  Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.  

To reduce waste, reuse materials and recycle where appropriate.   This year, I intend for my personal recycling program to take off.

Most items used every day - especially containers - are made of materials that can be used over and over again.  Recycling is collecting used materials that would otherwise be thrown away and breaking down and remaking these materials into new products.  Recycling saves resources and sends less trash to landfills and incinerators. 

I need to get serious and really commit myself to "rethink" old habits of throwing certain things away.  I find myself cringing when someone in my household tosses a bottle, can, jar, or even an old magazine issue.  

   So, what is your #1 recycling challenge? 

 I need a designated area / totes or containers for paper, plastic, glass & aluminum. And to place it in a convenient area, an obvious area.  Right now. I'm using a brown packing box for my recyclables and it's shoved in a corner.  

I'm sure I'll be using some of these materials for crafts or even to store craft supplies.  I will attempt DIY upcycling projects.   

Items to recycle include paper, batteries, plastics, glass, used oil, tires, electronics, food waste and others.

Benefits of Reducing and Reusing

• Prevents pollution caused by reducing the need to harvest new raw materials;
• Saves energy;
• Reduces greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global climate change;
• Helps sustain the environment for future generations;
• Saves money;
• Reduces the amount of waste that will need to be recycled or sent to landfills and incinerators;
• Allows products to be used to their fullest extent.

Ideas on How to Reduce and Reuse

• Buy used. You can find everything from clothes to building materials at specialized reuse centers and consignment shops. Often, used items are less expensive and just as good as new.
• Look for products that use less packaging. When manufacturers make their products with less packaging, they use less raw material. This reduces waste and costs. These extra savings can be passed along to the consumer. Buying in bulk, for example, can reduce packaging and save money.
• Buy reusable over disposable items. Look for items that can be reused; the little things can add up. For example, you can bring your own silverware and cup to work, rather than using disposable items.
• Maintain and repair products, like clothing, tires, and appliances, so that they won't have to be thrown out and replaced as frequently.
• Borrow, rent, or share items that are used infrequently, like party decorations, tools, or furniture.

One of my favorite online resources is Recyclebank.com .   It's a great website for learning how to recycle and ways to go green.  Recyclebank rewards members for green actions.  Rewards include Magazine subscriptions, discounts, coupons and more.   Visit Recyclebank.