Wednesday, February 09, 2011

The 4 R's

REuse, REduce, REcycle, REpurpose. 

It is National Green Week 2011.  The objective of National Green Week is to empower students to be leaders of their own sustainability campaign.  Spend time with your kids discussing environmental issues and specifically what they can do to make a difference.  But don't stop there.  These are lessons we should all learn and follow.  Kids learn by example. 

Reuse & Repurpose your items and keep them out of our landfills. Try to find ways to reuse your old items or repurpose them to bring them back to life. Shop your local Salvation Army Stores, Goodwill, Consignment Shops, etc. Visit Freecycle.org which is a non-profit network of people who are giving (and getting) stuff for free in their own towns. Recyclechicken.com. is a quick & easy directory that tells you where to take anything and everything for recycling or reuse in your area. Check the classified section of your local newspaper or Craigslist.com for other options.

Reduce. There are a ton of ways for you to reduce waste, save yourself some time and money, and be good to the Earth at the same time.  Start a compost bin in your yard.  This reduces waste and makes nutrient rich soil to use around your yard and in your garden thus saving a trip to the garden center and spending money.  Purchase reusable and refillable containers to use in your home instead of disposable items such as plastic food storage bags.  Avoid paper plates, cups and plastic silverware.  Get cloth bags or reusable grocery bags to avoid using "paper or plastic?"  Buy in bulk when available.  Stop unwanted junk mail by registering on dmachoice.org for $1.00.

Recycle your Plastics, Paper, Glass, Hazardous, Electronics, Household, Automotive, Metal, Construction.  Visit Earth911.com to locate a recycle center near you for just about anything or check your town website for recycling information.

Every little bit helps.  Start making a difference today!

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