Contributed by Randi Perlman
Recycling is picking up speed & momentum, and becoming more main stream every day. It’s the right thing to do, and makes you feel good when you do it! But how to start, you might ask yourself?!? Sometimes a project that seems challenging to tackle in one big chunk is so much easier when you take it in small ‘baby’ steps. Here are some tips to make recycling a simple part of your life while forming a positive, earth-changing habit.
Before you begin, it’s helpful to know which materials are collected in your area. Visit Valley Community for Recycling Solutions (VCRS), your local recycling center, or their website at www.valleyrecycling.org for a colorful flyer that lists all recyclable items they collect. Then, think about the items on that list your household uses most. Often, people start with one or two of those items, for example cardboard and beverage containers, then add more later. The amount of space you have available for collecting and sorting will determine what size containers you’ll need.
Where should you store your recyclables until they’re ready to drop off at VCRS? Wherever works best for you, of course! Since many items come from the kitchen, perhaps a bin under your sink would work, an empty drawer (hard to come by), or maybe labeled containers in a pantry. Other ideas more ‘outta sight’ could be a closet, garage or shed.
When it comes to a system, create your own! Use what you have, which might be old wastebaskets, cardboard boxes, laundry baskets, or paper bags. You could purchase bins, totes, or self-stacking containers. They can be labeled, color-coded or clear so you can easily see what’s inside. Use whatever’s convenient, cost-effective, and easy to handle. Post a recycling flyer in your sorting area as a guide for all family members and visiting friends. Labeling helps everyone find the right home for their recyclables.
When your sorted items are ready for drop-off at VCRS, bring them in their original collection container to be emptied (if that’s convenient), or in plastic bags or boxes that can be recycled or re-used. Use smaller bins for heavy items so they can be lifted easily. Take a full load, or combine it with another trip to save time and gas ($$). Keep in mind the Recycling Center is conveniently located adjacent to the Borough Central Landfill as well as Animal Care & Control. Don’t forget to empty and rinse any drink and food containers before recycling, and discard the caps.
THERE IS NO RIGHT OR WRONG WAY OF RECYCLING AT HOME OR AT WORK. Do what works for you and keep the process simple. Once you’ve set up a system, collecting and preparing items should only take minutes a day. REMEMBER…try to REDUCE the amount you use, REUSE things when you can, and then RECYCLE. Make it a HABIT!
Together We Are Turning it Around!
Pick up next month’s edition of The People’s Paper/Make a Scene Magazine for Recycling Repeats Itself, Episode 8