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Recycling

Recycling is a process that has been put into practice as far back as 400 BC, when waste was reused as a result of scarce resources. Though recycling is much more widespread today, it is still not mandated in all U.S. cities. Also, the caliber of recycling programs in each city varies; some states collect only glass, plastic and newspapers while other areas like New York will vary in the items they take: counting plastic coffee cups and cardboard among its recyclables. There has often been debate in the U.S. over whether recycling is effective, implying that the costs to collect and sort recycled items are not equivalent to the resources these programs are protecting. However, certain information shows that recycling and largely implemented programs have been proven effective and therefore recycling is a useful act to perform in your home everyday. So, if you're thinking about getting started, where should you begin? See the guide below!

Reusable Items

These items are recycled in most communities around the country.

Non-Traditional Recyclables

These items are not included in all recycling programs but they can be disposed of in a better way, whether it be in bins or at collection centers. See something on here that your town doesn't pick up? Why not talk to someone in your area about getting these items recycled?

Recycling Tips

* For whatever type of recycling you plan on doing, bins are always extremely helpful when it comes to putting items out on the curb. Sometimes your town or city will distribute plastic bags to put items inside. You can also pick up a crate at your local department store.  * If you are just moving into a new city or are concerned about recycling practices in your current residence, the Internet is a great resource for looking up recycling methods in your area. Check what can be recycled and if there is any kind of fine or penalty for throwing away items that could otherwise be collected. * Be neat about stacking or placing items in the recycling bincollectors aren't going to want to take a soda bottle with a little bit of Pepsi left on the bottom, nor will they collect soggy cardboard boxes. Just because they are collecting your items, this doesn't mean they will clean them out, too! Doing a little bit of work on your part can save the use of precious resources on the other end.

Related Guides

* Green Home Guide * Environmentally Friendly Batteries * Fair Trade Food and Beverage