Published: 18th October 2023
The 5 Golden Rules of Recycling
Recycling isn’t just a chore - it’s a small daily act that can make a massive impact on our planet! As we celebrate Recycling Week 2023, let’s dive into the five golden rules of recycling, tailored for both your home and workplace. These simple guidelines can help reduce waste, conserve resources and create a cleaner, greener world for all.
1. Know what you can recycle.
At home: Start by familiarising yourself with your local recycling program. Different areas accept different materials, so check what is accepted in your region in your kerbside bins and what things you might have to recycle by other means. In the workplace, make sure your workplace has clear recycling bins and guidelines. Educate employees about what can and can’t be recycled, creating a culture of responsible waste management.
2. Choose to reuse.
Are you about to recycle something that could be given a second chance at life? Could you reuse that glass jar for storage of pasta, rice or bits and bobs? Could it be turned into a candle holder? A vase? The possibilities are endless! And if you’re struggling to think of ideas, technology is at your fingertips.
3. Clean and empty your items.
Before tossing items into your recycling bin, give them a quick rinse and remove any food residue. Contaminated items can lead to entire batches of recyclables being rejected. (Always check with your local recycling program as this isn’t always required depending on the local contracting recycler.)
4. Familiarise yourself with hazardous waste.
Did you know that e-waste (items with cords and plugs), batteries and lightbulbs are considered hazardous waste? These items including paint and chemical waste should never be disposed of through kerbside bins, but taken to special recycling drop-off points. Check with your local municipality for locations.
5. Educate and communicate.
Teach your family, housemates or friends about the importance of recycling and make it a fun activity. Involve kids in sorting recyclables and explain how it helps the planet. One could take it one step further to reduce your waste by completing a household or workplace waste audit, and try to see which waste items you can reduce or eliminate by replacing with other strategies such as reusables.
By following these five golden rules at home and in the workplace, you can become a recycling champion during and beyond Recycling Week 2023. Small actions add up, and together, we can make a big difference in conserving resources and protecting our environment. Let’s recycle right and create a sustainable future for generations to come!
Does your organisation need some help in getting your recycling right? Get in touch!
Resources:
Wrap - https://wrap.org.uk/taking-action/citizen-behaviour-change/recycle-now/recycle-week
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