We all know the importance of recycling and how it makes a positive impact on our environment including our watersheds. November 15th has been deemed America Recycles Day which promotes the importance of recycling.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the recycling rate has increased from less than 7 percent in 1960 to the current rate of 32 percent. A study conducted by the EPA found that recycling and reuse activities in the United States accounted for 681,000 jobs and $37.8 billion in wages.
Good habits start at home; therefore, it is important that we learn about residential recycling properly. This way we can teach future generations an easy and convenient way to reduce waste and protect the environment. For example, items such as metal cans, paper and cardboard are commonly accepted by curbside refuse collection services. Remember to never place plastic bags, electronics, or batteries in the curbside recycling bin. To learn more about how to properly recycle your household items visit our our residential recycling page here.
Here are some benefits of recycling:
- Reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills and incinerators
- Conserves natural resources such as timber, water, and minerals
- Increases economic security by tapping a domestic source of materials
- Prevents pollution by reducing the need to collect new raw materials
- Saves energy
- Supports American manufacturing and conserves valuable resources
- Helps create new well-paying jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries in the United States.
