How to Recycle Properly

Hello, everyone!

First order of the day is of the utmost importance, we’re going back to basics as the practice of recycling represents one of the best ways we common people can take action against the ongoing siege of the natural order of things. The universe is vast but, as we know, our ecosystem is not and should be preserved as it is. Sometimes we forget we’re on a floating rock in the middle of nowhere, that so happened to give us the perfect environment to evolve, thrive, and live our lives to the fullest.

Many years ago, due to the lack of resources and lengthy manufacturing processes, ancient cultures found the need to reuse everyday items to survive and help each other. When it comes to paper, the recycling of it can be first dated back to 1031 in the home of cherry blossoms, ramen, and Mount Fuji. It was simpler back then, nonetheless, it set us on a good path by leaving us a method of reconciliation with nature. If it wasn’t for recycling, the clock would be ticking and we’d be definitely doomed as a whole. Luckily, people like us are still here to clutch this situation and fight for the future. Let’s see how we can do this properly:

The first rule of thumb is knowing that each country and city has its own regulations and processes when it comes to recycling, so make sure to check yours out. How are your materials collected? Is there any type of container you should use if they aren’t provided in your local area? This is vital information that you must know beforehand, along with the type of accepted/rejected items that are viable/would harm the process.

Understanding the Concept and the Process

We need to understand what recycling is and what’s behind it, to fully grasp what we’re doing and why. It makes it a lot easier and, even more important, it prevents us from doing any harm when not recycling properly!

The Essentials

Although technology has evolved, it hasn’t done so at the same rate everywhere. To counter this fact and to keep it simple and efficient, we should focus on the basic materials first which are the ones that you probably already know about: Paper, Plastic, Glass (and Batteries).

We don’t want you to get overwhelmed so don’t worry about it, it's one step at a time. If you have space in your kitchen, go ahead and get 4 small bins and categorize them by the materials and colors above. The fifth bin should be for your non-recyclable items.

Important Rules to Follow

• Keep your recyclables clean - do not dispose of items that aren’t fairly clean or have grease on them, this will probably end up ruining the whole package;
• Pay attention to these symbols in plastic, because the material used might not be recyclable;
• Avoid recycling combined materials, such as plastic-covered paper cups;
• Do not try to recycle soiled/wet paper;
• Some items are just too small to process and might clog/mess with the recycling equipment (Ex. Shredded paper/anything smaller than a credit card);
• Don’t give up and live with a clear conscience! 

Important Tips to Remember

• Flatten the cardboards you’re throwing into the bin so you can save space for more!
• Before recycling, see if there’s a way to upcycle the items (find them a new, practical and/or fun purpose!);
• Don’t throw your coffee cups into the bins!
• Don’t throw medical items into the bins, besides not working they might cause harm to the workers.
• Donate some items like clothing and plastic toys!

Additionally, there are certain materials that one should be careful with like, for example, asbestos that could lead to serious health problems! Here's a guide on how to identify the danger, current regulations, and more.

Consistency is the key, remember the last rule and you’ll be an example for humanity! If you already recycle and want to know more about how you can help the planet, one of our partners got you covered with 25 things you can do to reduce pollution! 

Let’s stick together and do our best to keep our items out of the landfills, they’ve done enough.

We’ll see you next week!