I often like to write about things that will help motivate me to live a better life; a life I can feel more proud of everyday. I believe that is a universal goal that all people share.
On this note, I used to recycle more often. In fact, I used to drag bags of recyclable materials to a local recycling center about once a week. This stopped for me almost 5 years ago. Yes, I wholeheartedly admit to this. Currently, I am also a Spokes model and Public Relations Representative for an environmentally safe vehicle company and feel as though I am confessing my sins right now. It feels better and I will work harder at recycling. When I say something “out loud” it makes harder for me to avoid it.
I have used many excuses over the years. If only the powers that be made recycling more convenient, i.e. picked up the materials from my apartment complex, if only I didn't feel so tired after work or whatever other activity I was finishing, if only, if only. Truth is recycling will take me no more than a half an hour to accomplish. It is something I must look at as a responsibility and a duty to myself and to my community.
Many people think one person cannot make that much of a difference, but every great leader who changed this world, was only one person. And, when I realize how many bags of garbage I throw away that fill the dumpster in my complex, I know that when I begin to recycle on a regular basis again, it will make a huge difference to the space left free in the landfills over the years.
I have noticed that grocery stores have even begun to promote recycling as well. The Ralphs near my home has put recycle bins by the front doors that patrons can deposit their old plastic bags in. I shudder when I think about all the plastic bags I have throw away in the past. But, I don't want to feel bad for the past. It cannot be changed, but I can make a difference now and going forward.
We can all make a difference by recycling everything from cans, bottles and paper to plastic bags, and other such products. It's up to all of us to preserve this gift; our world.
Best wishes to all.
Our area didn't pick up many things that were recycled in other places and have just started to take things like large mouth plastic containers such as margarine containers and gallon vinegar, bleach and water containers. I used cut them up into small pieces and stick them in other smaller plastic containers they did take. They didn't take certain types of cardboard and catalogs either. Finally they are more environmentally conscious and the amount of recycle waste that is accumulated every two weeks from just my husband and I is unbelievable.
It isn't a wasted effort.