How to help the environment through recycling

Recycling is the way forward in helping the environment by reducing waste, conserving resources, and minimising pollution.

There is no doubt that this summer, so far, has seen some very strange weather fronts across the globe. Global warming is definitely hotting up and we need to do all we can to start to slow it down.

By understanding how we can better help our environment is key to slowing down the effects of global warming, so here are a few things to consider:

Familiarise yourself with the recycling guidelines in your area. Different localities may have specific rules about what can and cannot be recycled. Check with your local waste management or recycling centre to find out which materials are accepted and how they should be sorted.

Separate your recyclables: Set up designated recycling bins in your home or workplace to sort different types of recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal. Proper separation makes recycling more efficient and prevents contamination.

Recycle paper and cardboard: Paper and cardboard can be recycled multiple times. Remember to remove any non-recyclable elements like plastic coatings or food residue. Common paper items to recycle include newspapers, magazines, office paper, cardboard boxes, and paper packaging.

Recycle plastic responsibly as plastic recycling can often be tricky! Not all types of plastic are recyclable. Look for the recycling symbol on plastic items and check if they are accepted in your area. Water bottles, milk bottles, plastic containers, and plastic bags are commonly recycled plastics.

Recycle glass: Glass is highly recyclable and can be endlessly reused. Glass containers like jars and bottles should be rinsed and any lids or corks should be removed before recycling.

Recycle metal: Aluminium and steel are valuable recyclable materials. Common metal items include beverage cans, food cans, foil, and empty aerosol cans.

Compost organic waste: Instead of throwing away food scraps, garden waste, and other organic materials, consider composting them. Composting reduces methane emissions from landfill sites and produces nutrient-rich soil for gardening.

Proper disposal of hazardous waste: Certain items like batteries, electronic waste (e-waste), fluorescent light bulbs, and household chemicals require special handling due to their hazardous nature. Contact your local recycling centre for instructions on safely disposing of these items.

Recycling textiles: Don’t throw your pre-loved clothes away. There is always someone who can benefit from them. Here at Recycled Clothing Banks we provide recycled clothing bins FREE of charge. We will brand the bin with your community/organisation’s logo and brand colours and we take care of everything; artwork, installation, emptying and cleaning. We will even pay you up to £400 per tonne for your reusable textiles donations to help your local community projects or chosen charity.

Spread awareness: Educate your friends, family, and community about the importance of recycling. Encourage them to adopt sustainable practices and offer guidance on proper recycling techniques.

Remember, recycling is most effective when combined with other environmentally friendly habits like conserving energy, reducing water usage, and supporting sustainable practices in daily life.

If you’d like to your local community to learn how to help the environment through recycling, then contact one of our friendly team today and arrange a FREE recycled clothing bin to be installed in your area.