Reduce Reuse Recycle

The three “R’s” of recycling are pretty easy to remember and implementing the concept can help to prevent recyclables from piling up in a local landfill site. You may be surprised at how easy the whole process actually is and how you can learn to become a recycling expert. The first step is learning about the three “R’s” of recycling and knowing how each is designed to be used with environmental services recycling programs. Just remember: reduce reuse recycle.

The first “R” in the three refers to reducing. This means to reduce the amount of garbage you generate. Try to buy items that are going to last longer so you do not have to buy them as often. Sure, there will be some items that do not have a long shelf life but you can still try to find those items that do. Some packaging contains harsher chemicals than others. It may cost you a dollar or two more but try to go with items that have less packaging.

Next up in the “reduce reuse recycle” idiom is reusing. Those plastic milk jugs, once rinsed and cleaned, can be reused in a multitude of ways. People make hanging flower pots from them or reuse them as plastic containers for water, juices and teas. Kids love using old milk jugs for art projects. Anything you can do to reuse packaging material will be a positive step in the right direction.

The final “R” relates to recycling. This means utilizing a recycling program from your sanitation department or local environmental services. You can ask them what materials are accepted locally and then get the appropriate recycling containers into which you can place that material for pick-up. Plastics go into one container. Paper goes into another container and glass goes into a separate container. Then all three, along with garbage that cannot be recycled, is picked up by your local sanitation or recycling program. As well, you can recycle your food waste products by starting a compost heap.

Just remember to “reduce reuse recycle” and you will be doing your part, not just for yourself but for future generations. It is remarkably easy to get started and once you have mastered the basics you will be a recycling guru. If you need help getting started or just want more information, then visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s website at www.epa.org.