Environment Support

BOOSTING RECYCLING EFFORTS

Recycling is no longer something that only environmental activists practice. People from all walks of life must apply recycling to religious practice. Recycling can come from various sources, including households, schools, business and various other industries. There are a number of industries and businesses that even recycle in order to save money.

The materials being recycled basically depend on the kind of industry or source. A variety of materials can be recycled - cardboard, paper, glass, aluminum, concrete and asphalt, iron, steel, textiles and plastics. Numerous school institutions recycle paper while business offices recycle packaging, toner and ink cartridges. A lot more can be done, however, to further preserve our planet and conserve resources.

Schools and neighborhoods can organize clothes and shoe drives in which the collected garments may then be donated to charities. Recycling not only does good for the environment but it sometimes allows people to open their hearts and show their compassion for others, especially to the less fortunate. Different school organizations may also conduct garage sales of unused household items to raise funds. Many state systems of individual schools and higher education institutions have implemented policies that require recycling and/or buying recycled items. Student governments and policy making bodies can also influence administration by passing bills to start a recycling program or improve an existing one, promote buying recycled products as well as adjusting student fees for recycling efforts. Of course, recycling should also be practiced at home; schools should educate their students as well as parents about its urgency, and the many ways they can contribute to the effort of a greener neighborhood.

Business establishments should strictly apply a garbage segregation system to separate biodegradable from non-biodegradable items. Recyclable items should be identified and transported to recycling centers. Hospitals across the country can set aside their old tools and medical equipment, which can still be reconditioned and donated to hospitals and clinics in developing countries. Soda cans can be returned by grocery stores to their manufacturers to be crushed and sent to an aluminum smelter where the items can be dissolved and remade into new items, mostly new cans. The recycling program for aluminum cans is essential since mining for aluminum ores consume a significant amount of energy and other resources. In fact, more energy is saved by recycling aluminum than almost any other material. Offices can recycle their electronics by either returning them to their manufacturers, or donating them to charities. Many computer companies now have their own recycling and take-back programs, often with incentives for their customers. Again, education is key; instructing and involving staff and employees will be very helpful in making a business’ recycling efforts succeed.

Unfortunately, there are establishments that do not run out of excuses for why recycling can’t be done. However, there are many states across the U.S. and in Europe that have recycling regulations. More and more neighborhoods and local governments also have their own recycling and curbside collection programs. Ohio for example, has a state law where they must recycle in order to lessen their waste production by at least 25%. Massachusetts prohibits computers and certain electronics from their landfills. Michigan disallows leaves and grass to be disposed in landfills. There are many states that implement fees and recycling requirements for manufacturers of covered electronic devices (CEDs). "Pay as You Throw" programs also exist, where you are charged depending on the extent of garbage thrown, instead of paying a flat rate. Other states also have the "Bottle Bill" wherein a deposit on bottles and cans is required every time beverages are purchased, to encourage customers to return their bottles and soda cans.

Resources for Student Recycling Programs