Becoming a planet with zero waste is a dream of many environmentalists around the world. Yet, the dream of becoming a zero waste planet is far from reality. There are many things that can be done to achieve a part of this dream. Generally, accumulation of waste happens when people do not have the slightest idea about how to manage their waste.
Tips for Going Zero Waste:
- Replace Plastics: There are certain materials that can be avoided altogether. You can easily replace plastic bags with reusable cloth bags. You can also create reusable bags at home from leftover t-shirts. It’s also easy to buy foods in glass jars rather than plastic ones. Empty glass bottles can later be recycled or reused for different storage purposes around the house.
- Use Less Paper, Then Recycle: The main culprits or contributors in paper misuse are different offices and corporations. It is best to print on both sides of a paper when you have to print hard copies. Also, it is better to check the print layout and other details before giving the print command. Office papers, newspapers, and other mixed papers are accepted in every curbside recycling program in Hampton Roads. Introduce your office to paper recycling and use paper with a high percentage of recycled content to help manage the paper waste situation in your office.
- Landfill Last: Believe in your recycling container! Review the askHRgreen.org Curbside Recycling Guide so you can “know before you throw.” And items not accepted in your curbside recycling may still be recyclable at drop off centers – like plastic bags, motor oil, metals and more! You can also divert food waste and biodegradable materials into a compost bin. Landfills should be a last resort.
- Recycle Electronics: Electronic waste should be taken to an approved recycler not tossed out with the trash. The accumulation of electronic waste in different dumping grounds is thought to contribute to various diseases and soil disorders. The recovered materials like metal, glass and plastic can also be reused to make new electronics.
- Get to Composting: It is a great idea to use a compost bin for disposing of food waste and biodegradable materials. As these can decompose easily, they create natural fertilizer that can be used in lawns and gardens. You can even add worms into compost to speed up the decomposition process – it’s called vermicomposting!
Whether it is your home, office, or city, it is important to take advantage of proper waste management and reduction techniques as part of our dream of a zero waste planet.
Erich Lawson is very passionate about the environment and effective recycling. He has written a wide array of articles on behalf of Northern California Compactors, educating others on how modern recycling equipment can be used to reduce garbage bills and increase recycling revenue.