Other ways to “recycle”
The term “recycling” is often used for other initiatives that encourage the reusing of products, or the safe disposal of items no longer being used. Without further ado, here are some things you can do to go easy on the environment:
Compost
Most composters have a backyard in which to do this so I don’t recommend this as a good idea for apartment dwellers (unless your building happens to have a compost heap). Composting is simply allowing things to break down as they naturally would. By “things” we’re talking mostly about fruit and vegetables (the parts you don’t eat, fruits and veggies that have gone bad) or coffee grounds in their filters. Through the process of composting, your banana peel and apple core eventually become nutrient-rich soil that can be used in the garden. To find out more about how to do this, check out The Composting Guide.
Bring it back
For many things like paints, batteries, wine bottles, you can return them to where you bought them and the business will take care of them in an environmentally responsible way. Keep in mind that businesses are usually not open to receiving things every day of the year: instead, days are set up when residents are encouraged to drop things off. Check out your city guide to see if such a program exists in your neighbourhood.
Donate to a charity
Under the category of reusing, the donation of your still usable goods to a charity is a great way to give back to your community. Many not-for-profit organizations sell your donation to earn money for their cause. Before you toss something, ask yourself if somebody else can still use it. If not, wave good bye but if so, keep it and give it away. Some charities will even come to your house and pick up your no longer needed items.
How do you do your part to be environmentally responsible?
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