Recycling is a great way to keep stuff out of the landfill and reduce the need for new materials. And if you are lucky enough to live in a community that heavily supports (or even mandates) recycling, the task may be as simple as remembering which stuff to put in the recycle bin. But for most folks (like me) recycling is more of a DIY adventure involving washing, sorting, and transporting recyclables to the nearest recycling center. Click here to read all about the benefits of recycling. Once you’re convinced, check out these tips on what, how, and where to recycle:
What Should You Recycle?
The Top 10 Items To Recycle
- Aluminum
- PET Plastic (#1)
- Newspaper
- Corrugated Cardboard
- Steel Cans
- HDPE Plastics (#2)
- Glass
- Magazines
- Mixed Paper
- Computers
Source: National Recycling Coalition
- Look Locally: Find out what items your local recycling center will take by plugging your zip code into the Earth 911 website.
- Play By The Rules: Take a minute to learn the recycling rules at your local center. They may require you to take a few extra steps like removing the caps from plastic bottles or excluding medicine bottles from your recycling. Play by the rules to make recycling work for everyone.
- Get Sorted: Set aside a spot in your kitchen or laundry room for recyclables. If you really want to get organized, try using stacked bins that keep everything sorted and tidy. The Recycling Center’s 3-tiered stacked recycle bin is available here. No space? Place a small trash can under the sink to hold it all. Personally, I like the Apartment Recycling Bag. It’s sturdy, lightweight and easy to schlep with children.
Where To Recycle Whether it’s paint, plastic, or used motor oil, if it’s recyclable, the Earth 911 website will tell you the closest place to drop it off.
