Studies show the earth will run out of natural resources by 2040.
We are already experiencing the effects of limited natural resources. Climate change is a result of the earth running out of supply.
When you recycle, you help to preserve the earth’s resources. But there are other neat ways recycling affects our daily lives.
Let us discuss seven interesting facts about recycling you did not know before.
1. Recycling Companies
Not all cities have city-operated recycling centers. Cities contract private waste management companies for recycling services.
You can help choose what company gets contracted to deliver waste management services.
Visit your town hall meeting to see which recycling companies are bidding for city contracts. Ask the companies questions about their recycling software systems and facility operations.
Choose the company that is the most organized and reliable.
2. Reuse Recyclables
Find creative ways to reuse plastic, glass, and paper in your home. Repurposing empty containers and buying reusable goods helps recycling plants cut down emissions.
And instead of recycling cardboard boxes, you can reuse them as recycling bins.
Being thrifty is a sustainable practice that stretches our supply of natural resources.
3. Recycling Saves Marine Life
Much of the litter that ends up in rivers and streams is recyclable. Items like straws and soda can holders are a danger to marine life.
Recycling keeps our oceans clean, so marine life has a safe place to stay. Put your plastic bottles and other recyclables in the correct receptacle.
4. Return Bottles for Cash
Many states charge a tax on glass and plastic bottles that you can earn back. Bottles have how much they are worth on the side of the label.
Earn extra money by taking your bottles to a bottle acceptor at your local grocery store. Or take the bottles directly to the recycling center to receive your bottle credit.
5. Protect Natural Resources
Natural resources like fossil fuels and trees take millions of years to replenish. And we are consuming these resources faster than they are growing.
Recycling slows down deforestation and allows Mother Nature to regrow resources.
6. Recycling Electronic Devices
People have no clue what to do with old electronics. Donate these items if they are still in working condition.
Office stores take broken electronics and may even offer you store credit for bringing in the item. You can also check your city website to see if they have an electronic recycling program.
7. Save the Ozone Layer
Recycling companies also leave a carbon footprint. They burn fuel to melt and transport recyclables. And the emissions from the fuel erode our ozone layer exposing us to harmful UV rays.
So remember to reduce, reuse, and then recycle. The order is super important because it lists the most to the least sustainable.
Facts About Recycling
Recycling is not just for tree huggers and vegans. These seven facts about recycling have implications for every human on planet earth.
Visit the Technology section to learn about other sustainable solutions for your daily life.