Plan It for the Planet! November 15th America Recycles Day
So maybe America Recycles Day isn't as well known as Thanksgiving, New Years or the Fourth of July, but it is potentially becoming equally as significant for our planet's future! While our national recycling rate has increased each year for the past 30 years there is still great opportunity for recycling. America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day and community-driven awareness event dedicated to promoting and celebrating recycling in the U.S.
Consider these facts:
- The Average American produces 4.4 pounds of trash each day.
- The United States produces over 250 million tons of trash each year!
- Our current rate of recycling is 34.7%.
America Recycles Day planners have established an organizational system to encourage communities to create recycling events to promote additional recycling to minimize additional trash in our landfills. Events will focus on recycling strategies for all kinds of waste products including cans, plastics, batteries and paper to name a few. Events further educate and promote the active participation in recycling individually and corporately.
The strategies below highlight some recycling opportunities we have to participate. Each of these can be done individually or collectively as part of a community service project. While November 15th is the recognized day for education and outreach it is hoped that education and awareness generated will inspire greater recycling within each person’s home and community.
- Sign the America Recycles Day pledge and spread the word
- Reduce your consumption
- Re-use and repair what you have
- Share, swap or rent
- Sign up for curbside recycling or use the recycling program more aggressively
- Repurpose or up-cylce
Repurposing and up-cycling comprise of activities that anyone of any age can do with a little planning. Below are some links to provide that creative inspiration:
Each of the strategies above highlights our individual opportunity to participate and or improve our present level of recycling.