It is now the beginning of a new year! I want to challenge you to think about how you will make a change in how you process and recycle trash in your home. In order to consider this challenge and succeed, you will need to think about a few things first:

1. Where will I place recycling receptacles? You will need to have collection space(s) available in order to store items. A corner in the garage, concealed under a counter or table, outside along a wall, or in a specific part of the basement.

2. What kind of receptacles do I use? You can use anything in which to hold/collect your recyclables. Consider what you’ll be recycling and decide what type of container you will need to hold it. For instance, cardboard boxes work great, however, you may want to add a plastic bag liner when you deposit rinsed glass bottles/jars in it. Some people like open receptacles to toss things into, others prefer to have them covered. Either way, be creative and look for things you already have that are similar in size. Label them so the whole family can locate and use them.

3. When do I begin? You can begin this process only after you have set in place a plan. If a system is to work for you, thought has to be put into it. The process needs to be easy, fluid, and convenient to use. If you are lucky enough to have roadside pickup, then you will be given some receptacles to use. Larger families usually need more receptacles since more trash is recycled. This means more room will be needed for collection.

4. How do I begin?
a. Get the family together to collect ideas about what the family will recycle.
b. Explain to them how they will be involved in the new recycling plan. Make sure everyone is on the same page and understands the complete process.
c. Learn what the recycling numbers are and what you plan to recycle. Know what recycled items your community accepts, and where collection spots are.
d. If your home has a number of levels, you may want to have collection points for paper products on each level for convenience.
e. Learn how to recycle things correctly – rinse all containers out, separate plastics, crush everything possible to compact space, and set specific days for removal.

5. Why should I commit to recycling in my home? It’s your opportunity to do your part to begin thinking about how you can help. All of us should be more responsible for our planet’s future. It also awakens you to think about how things are packaged. Then you begin thinking about what’s contained inside that packaging and what companies are trying to package healthier product options in recyclable containers. In other words, it begins a whole ripple effect with how you will begin to think about and purchase products. Suddenly you’ll find yourself reading all product labels and learning that many companies use advertising key words to get consumers to buy things. Words like “natural, organic, lite” and many other select words let you think companies are making a change in their products, but the change can sometimes be simply in the new packaging catch phrase words that were added, and nothing else. Take time this year to be a better consumer!

It’s time for all of us to consider how we can teach our children to care for their planet. I hope you will take on this challenge for this year. I KNOW you will be a better person for it! If you ever need ideas or help with your recycling efforts, please contact me and I’ll help you get started. It’s really very easy. All you have to do is BEGIN.

Cathy Dick
Final Touch Designs, Inc.

http://www.final-touchdesigns.com