Starting a Recycling Program

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While it might seem hard to believe, there are some communities that still have not embraced recycling. In this increasingly environmentally conscious day and age, that's left members of such communities wondering how they can contribute to the overall health of the environment.

In addition to supporting legislation that makes recycling the law, environmentally conscious citizens can take the following steps when it comes to instituting a recycling program, or helping an existing one become a success.

* Educate prospective participants: Nearly everything can be recycled, and what's recycled today can become a completely different product down the road. For example, some recycled plastics can be used to manufacture clothing in the future. When put in that light, it's easier for people to grasp just how valuable recycling is.

Another part of the education process is to promote the use of reusable products. For example, in lieu of using disposable paper plates and napkins, use reusable plastic plates and cloth napkins that can be washed and used again. This will help people both save money and the environment.

* Locate a recycling vendor: Most communities have some type of recycling center. While it might not be law in a given community to recycle, that doesn't mean you shouldn't investigate whether there's a recycling center nearby. Find out who this vendor is in your community and see what materials they accept. Typically, such centers will accept plastics, aluminum (soda cans), glass, and paper products. For most households, those items cover their recycling needs. Once you've spoken with the vendor, you can then share that information with other members of your community and get your program off the ground.

* Maintain recycling centers: Communities that don't offer pickup of recycled items typically have dropoff areas where those who recycle can conveniently drop off their items. It's imperative that such locations be well maintained and monitored on a regular basis. Keep all bins clean and make sure that recycled items aren't piling up. The cleaner the facility, the more likely it is to attract participants. If a dropoff area is dirty and unkempt, it might attract critters and turn people off in the process.

* Provide instructions: Oftentimes, particularly in communities where recycling isn't legislated, dropoff space is limited. Therefore, that places a greater emphasis on providing proper recycling instructions so the space that is provided is used to the fullest extent. Cardboard boxes, for example, should be broken down, while bottle caps from plastic bottles should be removed. In addition, encourage that bottles and cans, from both beer and soda alike, be rinsed before being dropped off at a recycling facility. Unwashed bottles and cans might attract critters or insects, which will discourage people from going to the facilities.

* Keep data: A great way to make recycling law is to provide compelling evidence as to why it should be so. If you're monitoring a recycling program for your community, keep tabs on how much is being recycled each month. After a program has had a few months to get off the ground, consider asking community members to participate in a survey showing their level of involvement in the program. Sufficient participation coupled with recycling data can be an effective tool to take to local or state legislators in support of making recycling the law in your community.