We all know a thing or two about recycling, but we’re still not taking it seriously enough. In fact, only 91% of all plastic is being recycled properly.
Plastic isn’t the only thing we need to learn how to recycle. There are tons of materials that are making their way into landfills, rather than being disposed of properly.
Doing better starts with understanding what count as recyclable products and what don’t. We’re here to shed light on a few things that you should be recycling that you probably aren’t.
Read on for five products that you should start recycling this year.
1. Soft Plastic
Most of us know that single-use hard plastic (think water bottles and shampoo containers) belongs in the recycling. What we tend to throw in the trash and shouldn’t is “soft” plastic, like grocery bags. It’s time to start recycling soft plastic and cut down on our use of it by opting for reusable options.
2. Batteries and Lightbulbs
Batteries and lightbulbs run out of power with time, but they don’t belong in your trashcan when they do. Both contain materials and chemicals that are harmful to the planet, which is why there are plants and locations that allow you to drop them off for proper recycling. Click here for more information about recycling batteries.
3. Electronics
Electronics also contain materials and chemicals that don’t belong in landfills. Plus, even when you retire an electronic or it stops working, there are components that can likely be reused. Many shops and nonprofits are willing to take your old electronics off your hands for proper recycling.
4. Polystyrene
Alright, this isn’t exactly a word that screams “household product,” so what are we talking about? Polystyrene is the material used to make things like packing peanuts, styrofoam takeout containers, and even CD cases. There are a lot of reasons to try to stay away from this material, including the fact that it’s made from unsustainable resources (in this case, petroleum), but it also doesn’t break down naturally, which means that it requires proper treatment.
5. Furniture
So much of what goes in our landfills could have been reused. If you’re considering getting rid of some of your furniture, take a few steps before you call your local bulk trash service. See if anyone in your life would like to take it, host a garage sale, or donate it to a thrift shop if it is in good condition or could be brought back to life.
Don’t Trash These Recyclable Products
It’s time to get serious about the products we use and throw away. As climate change accelerates and we get closer to the loss of important resources, we should start doing what we can to reduce waste, reuse what we can, and recycle what we can’t. Keep this list of recyclable products handy and think twice before you throw these items in the trash.
Looking for more ways to make your home a happier and more sustainable place? Take a look at our home improvement tips.
Leave a Reply