RECYCLING FOR EVERY ROOM IN YOUR HOUSE

You have garbage cans all across your house, but what about recycling cans? Here’s a simple trick to be more mindful about being green.

Recycling is now the norm in communities, but as widespread as the environmental trend is, there are still opportunities to improve the amount we recycle. While recycling is not only good for the planet and helps us reuse materials which would otherwise end up in a landfill, it’s also good for the economy.

According to the Tellus Institute, a research and action group for a global civilization of sustainability, equity, and well-being, improving the U.S. recycling rate from 33% to 75% would create 1.5 million new jobs. While traditional waste disposal generates 0.1 jobs per 1,000 tons of landfill, recycling generates 2 jobs for every 1,000 tons! (You can learn more about the Tellus Institute here: http://www.tellus.org)

Here’s a quick life hack to increase the amount you recycle in your home: Put a smaller garbage can in your bathroom and place a recycling bin next to it. While people are generally good about recycling in their kitchen and home offices, the bathroom can be a surprising source of waste. According to a study by Johnson & Johnson, manufacturers of a wide range of health and beauty products, 40% of Americans throw out plastic shampoo bottles in their garbage rather than recycle them. The same is true of toilet paper rolls and other sanitary packaging, including cardboard soap boxes.

If it’s not too unappealing, consider choosing a recycling bin that’s green or the same color as your neighborhood’s recycling bins. Many hardware stores will carry recycling bins in a variety of colors. This will serve as a simple visual reminder to recycle those bathroom items rather than committing them to the landfill. Combined with a smaller garbage can, you’ll find that that your total progress toward “zero waste” will improve considerably.

What other simple tricks do you use to recycle, reuse, and ultimately reduce waste? Share them with me!

If you’re green in the extreme, get in touch with me for your next “green home” search. Many new homes have integrated sustainable energy practices that can reinforce your commitment to a healthy, happy planet. Get in touch today: valeriemcconville@realtyexecutives.com