A 2017 study found that only 9% of plastic is actually recycled. What happens to the rest?
Around 12% is incinerated, while the remaining end up in landfills or in the ocean, according to an article published in Science Advances.
With so much plastic ending up in the environment, is recycling even worth it.
Today, you’ll learn why recycling is important and what you can do to help protect the environment with steps like trash pickup service.
Why Recycling Is Important (and Why Now More than Ever Before)
According to the latest statistics (2015 figures are the latest per the EPA), nearly 75% of the waste in America is recyclable. Unfortunately, Americans only recycle around 30% of it.
Recycling isn’t just about plastic. You can also recycle:
- Food (into compost)
- Newspaper
- Office paper
- Magazines
- Glass
- Corrugated cardboard
- Aluminum cans
- Steel cans
- Computers
Though most people have known for years that they can recycle glass and magazines, many still aren’t doing it. That’s why it’s so important that you investigate why recycling is important. It’s kind of like the concept of “finding your why” in order to achieve your goals. If your “why” is strong enough, you’re more likely to put the effort into reaching your goals.
So, why should you recycle? Why should you rely on a trash pickup service like US Junk Trash’s Kansas City trash service to relieve you of your recyclables?
The main reason is that recycling protects the planet – not just for you and your loved ones now, but for generations down the road. By protecting the Earth’s natural resources, you help:
- Promote environmental cleanliness
- Conserve the Earth’s precious and finite natural resources
- Save energy
- Reduce the trash that’s taking up valuable space on land and polluting the ocean
The numbers are pretty amazing, too. It doesn’t take much to make a difference. For example, recycling a can might not seem like a big deal, until you realize that recycling a single can saves enough energy to power a television for three hours.
How can you contribute to saving the planet?
- Reuse or recycle glass bottles
- Compost your leftover food instead of tossing it
- Donate old clothes, books, and furniture
- Book an appointment with a trash pickup service to regularly pick up your recyclables
Invest in a Trash Pickup Service That Also Offers Recycling Services
The United Nations scientific panel released a report last year warning of major environmental crisis by 2040 if humans continue along on their current path.
You and your neighbors have the power to help prevent such a crisis. By investing in regular trash and recyclable pickup from a Kansas City trash service, you can slow down the assault on the planet.
Find your “why” and get motivated and determined to become more vigilant in your recycling efforts.
