Recycling Basics

What do you know about recycling? Are you aware of the things that can and cannot be recycled? What can be done to the recyclable things? Learn about the basics of recycling in this article.

A Glimpse Into the World of Recycling

Surely, you know that everyone must recycle but majority of you are probably still a bit unaware of how and what to recycle. Most people simply assume that they are doing the right thing by tossing their recyclable to the bin. Even though this is considered as a crucial step for this process, you need to be mindful of several additional things here.

Here, you will explore how you can actually be a conscientious and effective recycler that will then allow you to keep the planet, including the oceans, clean and green. The very first question that needs to be answered is what are the things that can be recycled?

In general, the recyclables are being divided into 4 major categories: Plastics, Paper, Metals, and Glass. Depending on the recycling laws in your area, you may or may not need to divide the recyclables that you have accordingly.
What materials belonging to these categories should be recycled and how are they recycled?

Plastics

Majority of the plastics which include but are not limited to bags, containers, and bottles are recyclable. But this is only when these have been rinsed out, cleaned as well as emptied properly. For the plastic bottles, first you need to remove the cap. Then, rinse and empty the bottle before flattening it and replacing the cap.

Keep in mind that when recycling the “6 pack rings,” it is important to have them cut up for preventing any kind of tragedy in the marine life. You will definitely not want to be the one to blame for injuring or even killing innocent creatures.

Remember that toys, airbags, styrofoam and other kinds of plastic container that contain toxic material like motor oil cannot be recycled. The perfect way for dealing with such plastics is either to lessen if not limit the consumption of the products that are packaged in these or you can also search for more creative ways of reusing them.

Paper

Majority of the forms of paper items include cardboard, newspaper, plates and paper cups (rinsed out), magazines and books can be placed in recycle bins. Bear in mind that shredded paper will be separated from others. Also, remember that soiled paper, facial tissues together with the greasy pizza boxes are not recyclable. The best thing is that these things can be composted.

Metals

Steel, aluminum and tin are among those metals which are recyclable. Make sure, however, that all the cans will be emptied and cleaned. You cannot recycle hangers, aluminum foil, paint containers, scrap metals, and Helium containers. You can inquire in your place which will take such things off your hands for them to be placed in good use.

Glass

Jars, glass bottles and the containers that can be put in the recycling bin. However, you need to be aware that you need to put broken glass in the garbage bin or utilize this as a kind of art metal, not for recycling purposes.
Items including dishware, mirrors, glasses and cups, ornaments and decoration cannot be recycled.

If you want to turn this kind of garbage to something useful in a fun, effective and creative way, you can use them as crafts and arts materials. Through educating and informing your children about recycling’s dos and don’ts, you can ensure that the future will still see a greener and cleaner planet.