Recycling is processing used materials (waste) into new products
to prevent waste of potentially useful materials, reduce the
consumption of fresh raw materials, reduce energy usage, reduce air
pollution (from incineration) and water pollution (from land
filling) by reducing the need for "conventional" waste disposal,
and lower greenhouse gas emissions as compared to virgin
production.
Recycling is a key component of modern waste reduction and is the
third component of the "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" waste
hierarchy.
Instead of keeping a trash bag in your car instead keep a second
bag that you can easily throw recyclable items into. This tiny
investment of effort can go a long way in helping reduce waste
globally.
IIt doesn't HAVE to be thrown away, however, when it comes to cars it's probably the best choice. The older the car the less care went into protecting the environment. So as soon as you can trade in the clunker for something a bit more modern. Every bit helps when it comes to protecting out earth.
Taking a reuse mentality to help reduce waste in other areas of your life is definitely a great choice! Taking an active role in reducing your carbon footprint is the goal. If everyone of us makes these same small changes we literally would change the world.
Find an alternate method of transportation if possible. Not only
will this provide a break from the monotony of everyday but will
also make a big impact on the environment.
It's not all bicycles and walking either, bus routes, car pooling,
hitch hiking (just kidding about the hitch-hiking), get inventive
with the options.
The exercise and pride you will get from knowing you've done your
part is well worth the changes you'll need to make!
