“The truth is that plastic with food residues in or on it usually cannot be recycled. Only good quality, clean plastics can go through the recycling process,” states rePurpose Global. “Sometimes a recycling factory would perform the washing for you, but most times the plastic is deemed useless, lumped with the other trash, and thrown in a landfill or incinerator.” Waste Management suggests placing recyclables in your sink while rinsing dishes so the items are clean from residue and you minimize the amount of water needed. Don’t Bag the Recycling If you put your recyclables in a trash bag, all your hard work will be for nothing. Ironically, single-use plastic bags can’t be recycled. Instead of tossing a bag full of recyclables into the bin, empty the contents directly. It’s a small change with a big impact. Even if your heart is in the right place when it comes to recycling, you are not actually helping the environment if you do not follow these three easy rules. In addition to properly recycling, reducing and reusing materials is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint. One way to reduce is by being mindful of the products you are constantly using. Instead of buying a paper bag at the store, bring your canvas bags (you can carry more groceries, too!). When you go out to eat, bring your own to-go container for the leftovers. Little changes like this won’t cure the world, but they can minimize your individual carbon footprint. While individual actions are important, it’s essential to recognize that the burden of solving the recycling crisis should not rest solely on the consumer’s shoulders. No matter how diligently we sort our plastics, the overarching impact comes down to corporate practices. Consumers can influence change through informed choices and demand for eco-conscious products. However, true systemic change requires corporations to adopt environmentally responsible practices. In the spirit of Earth Day, let’s take a hard look at our consumer habits, ensure we are recycling properly, and continue to have conversations about improving the environment.
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