Way back in 1977, the National Recycling Coalition created America Recycles Day to encourage fellow Americans to commit to the act of recycling. On November 15 each year, this day is celebrated as a way to bring awareness to the importance of recycling.
Are you ready to get started on a recycling lifestyle? First of all, take the Keep America Beautiful #BeRecycled pledge.
- LEARN: I will find out what materials are collected for recycling in my community.
- ACT: Within the next month, I will reduce the amount of waste I produce, I will recycle more, and I will buy products made with recycled content.
- SHARE: In the next month, I will encourage one family member or one friend to take the #BeRecycled pledge.
To emphasize the importance of recycling, below are a few eye-opening facts:
- 60% of trash could be recycled.
- More than 80 billion aluminum cans are used each year around the world.
- Aluminum cans can be recycled endlessly.
- Each American uses almost 700 pounds of paper each year – most of which is thrown away.
- Plastic bags in the oceans kill a million sea creatures each year.
- More than 200 million trees could be saved each year if everyone would recycle their newspapers.
The Leave Only Footprints website has some great tips for going green, as well as a list of trash and recycling centers in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
Small choices made each day can make a big difference in keeping our environment clean and beautiful for generations to come.