When you put your recycling bin out on the curb, you might think that it's going to be recycled into new products. But the reality is, a lot of recycling ends up in landfills or incinerators.
In the United States, only about 35% of all recyclables are actually recycled. The rest is either sent to landfills or incinerators, where it releases harmful pollutants into the air and water.
There are a few reasons why so much recycling ends up in landfills and incinerators. One reason is that some materials are simply not recyclable. These materials include things like food waste, plastic bags, and Styrofoam.
Another reason why recycling rates are so low is that many people don't know how to recycle properly. They may put non-recyclable items in their recycling bin, or they may not rinse out food containers before recycling them.
What you can do about it this Earth Day
There are a few things you can do to help increase recycling rates and reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills and incinerators.
* Reduce your consumption of single-use plastics. Single-use plastics are items that are meant to be used only once and then thrown away. These items include things like plastic bags, straws, and water bottles. By reducing your consumption of single-use plastics, you can help to reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in landfills and oceans.
* Recycle properly. Make sure to rinse out food containers before recycling them, and only put recyclable items in your recycling bin. You can also check with your local recycling center to find out what materials are accepted.
* Compost food waste. Composting is the process of breaking down organic matter into a nutrient-rich soil amendment. You can compost food waste at home in a compost pile or bin.
* Support businesses that use recycled materials. When you buy products made from recycled materials, you are helping to create a demand for recycled goods. This encourages businesses to recycle more materials.
By taking these simple steps, you can help to make a difference in the world this Earth Day.
Additional tips for recycling
* Look for the recycling symbol. When you're shopping for products, look for the recycling symbol. This symbol means that the product is recyclable.
* Check with your local recycling center. If you're not sure whether an item is recyclable, check with your local recycling center.
* Recycle electronics. Electronics contain hazardous materials that should not be sent to landfills. Recycle electronics at a certified electronics recycling center.
* Donate used clothing and household items. If you have used clothing or household items that you no longer need, donate them to a local thrift store or charity.
