Recycling success starts with individual effort, community involvement and education. Recycling is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or incinerators. Plus, once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature and effortless.

The first step in recycling is to set aside one container for recyclable material next to your garbage bin. This can be a box, bin or bag. The container serves as a quick visual reminder for everyone in your household or place of business to consider the recyclability of each item headed to the trash.

The next step is to learn and identify what can be recycled. In most areas, this includes paper, cardboard, plastics and glass. It is important to check with your local recycling center to find out what is accepted to help eliminate any additional sorting or contamination. You can find this information on your provider’s website.

And finally, when you recycle bin becomes full, place it for curbside pickup if available or drop it off at the nearest recycle center. It’s really that easy to start recycling and to keep it up!

Some simple tips to make recycling more effective at home:

  1. Flatten cardboard boxes.
  2. Remember, plastic bottles can be recycled.
  3. All paper can be recycled, from envelopes to wrapping paper and phone books to paper towel tubes.
  4. Most metallic items can be recycled, too, including empty spray cans, tin foil and aluminum cans.
  5. To reduce foul odors, be sure to wash food waste off any plastics or glass food containers before putting them in the recycle bin.
  6. Make note that plastic bags cannot be recycled, but they can be dropped off at most major stores such as your local grocery store.

Recycling is something we can all do that makes a huge impact, not only locally, but globally. Take action at home or at work and make a change. It starts with one person!