Waste is an unfortunate thing and improper waste management is even more unfortunate. Proper waste disposal is location specific and depends on local services and infrastructure. Contact your local hauler or city services for guidance on waste disposal. If everyone properly managed their waste it could save energy, reduce the amount of trash in landfills and help create more jobs in the recycling and manufacturing industries. According to the EPA, the environmental protection agency, 52.1 % of waste goes to landfills and only 30% of waste is recycled. The way we handle our garbage at home is important, so we put together a guide on how to sort out your trash.
Recycling
Recycling is a great way for individuals to make a difference, both locally and globally. You can reduce the amount of trash sent to harmful landfills and incinerators by recycling your garbage correctly. Recyclables are sent to a recovery facility to be sorted, cleaned, and processed into materials that can be used in manufacturing. Everything has a specific way it needs to be disposed of. Things like batteries, motor oil, or even tires can be recycled and should be. By recycling you not only help keep our water supply clean, reduce the trash in landfills, and lower your carbon footprint. Check out the EPA’s guide to recycling properly. To find the recycling center nearest you, call: 1 800-CLEANUP
Composting
Compost is an organic material that can be added to soil to help plants grow. According to the EPA, our food and yard waste makes up more than 28% of what we throw away and it should be composted instead. Composting your food waste would reduce methane emissions, produce beneficial bacteria and fungi, and enrich your soil. Check out the EPAs guide to composting at home.
Donating
Instead of throwing away old appliances, clothes, or tools, donate them to someone else. Try looking for local churches, shelters, thrift shops, or organizations that accept donated items near you. Find Organizations like GreenDrop, Goodwill, or Habitats for Humanity to pick up your donations for free. Check out the EPA’s guide to Donation
Reselling
If you’re looking to profit off your old stuff, simply resell it. Have a garage sale or consider consignment, and if possible, sell it back to the brand you bought it from. Environmentally conscious brands like Madewell, Patagonia, and Eileen Fisher will pay you for your old clothes. Find organizations that are willing to pay you for your old goods by doing a quick google search.