We all lead busy lives which can sometimes make it hard to do the small things that matter. Recycling is the perfect example of this. Recycling is a simple and impactful way to contribute to a cleaner, greener planet and by making small changes we can all make a big difference.
But there are also current local benefits. Black bag waste can often attract unwanted pests and when not put out properly, can end up splitting open and making the area look untidy. However, recycling bags are collected more frequently and are less likely to attract pests, but only when the recycling has been cleaned and properly placed. This will reduce the amount of waste stored in your home and will reduce the amount of unsightly waste spread across the area.
Making a change
Following a change to bin collections across RCT, we’ve been working with our communities to help people get into recycling; and many of your really did get on board with it.
In Fernhill alone, residents made a huge improvement in how well they recycled. In fact, they reduced the amount of spoiled recycling collected by 66%. This meant that 199 less recycling bags had to be taken to landfill because tenants had made small improvements to the way they recycled.
We want to say a massive thank you to all those that took the advice on board, collectively you’ve all made a huge difference and we want to work with you to keep that momentum going.
So Why is Recycling Important?
- Preserves Natural Resources: Recycling reduces the need for extracting and processing new raw materials, such as metals, plastics, and paper. This helps conserve our precious natural resources and reduces the impact of mining and logging on our environment.
- Saves Energy: Manufacturing products from recycled materials typically requires less energy than producing them from scratch. By recycling, we reduce energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduces Landfill Waste: When we recycle, we divert waste from landfills. Overfilled landfills release harmful gases and leach toxic chemicals into the soil. Recycling helps us manage waste more sustainably.
- Protects Wildlife: Many of the materials we discard can be harmful to wildlife if not disposed of properly. Recycling prevents animals from ingesting or getting entangled in plastic and other non-biodegradable materials.
Top Tips for Getting Started with Recycling:
- Know Your Local Recycling Scheme: Different areas in the UK may have different recycling programs. Check with your local council to understand what materials are collected and how they should be sorted.
- Set Up Recycling Bins: Having the right recycling bins make things so much easier when trying to sort your waste. You can visit the council website to find out what recycling bins and bags are available.
- Rinse and Clean Containers: Before recycling, rinse out food and drink containers to prevent contamination. Clean items are easier to recycle and more likely to be accepted.
- Learn the Recycling Symbols: Familiarise yourself with recycling symbols commonly found on packaging. These symbols indicate whether an item can be recycled and how.
- Reduce and Reuse: Recycling is essential, but reducing and reusing are even more sustainable. Buy products with less packaging, and consider upcycling items for a second life.
- Donate or Sell: If you have items in good condition that you no longer need, consider donating or selling them instead of throwing them away. Someone else might find value in them.
- Educate Your Family and Friends: Share your knowledge about recycling with your friends and family. Encourage them to join in your efforts.
- Be Patient: Recycling habits take time to develop. Don’t get discouraged if you make mistakes or find it challenging at first. Every small effort counts.
By embracing recycling in your daily life, you’re not just making a personal commitment to a cleaner environment, but you’re also contributing to a larger movement towards sustainability. So, let’s all do our part and recycle responsibly, for a brighter, cleaner future.
You can read more about recycling and waste in our managing your estate page, here.