Many people are eager to start recycling, but they find themselves giving up after a few days or weeks. Instead of throwing in the towel, try to make recycling a habit that is part of your daily routine. Here’s how:
Learn the Do’s and Don’ts
The first step is learning the do’s and don’ts of recycling. Get in touch with your local recycling facility to learn which materials they do and don’t accept. You should also find out when your bins will be picked up so you know when to bring them to the curb. People who try to start recycling without learning this information often quit after becoming frustrated when they make a mistake. Prevent this from happening by taking the time to learn the basics so you are prepared to turn recycling into a daily habit.
Purchase Large Recycling Bins
People often quit recycling mid-week once their small-sized bin is filled to the brim. Luckily, this problem can be avoided by simply purchasing large recycling bins for your home. Studies have shown that switching to a larger bin encourages people to recycle 30-50% more than usual. This is because the bin will not fill up as quickly, so you won’t have a reason to call it quits after a few days.
Recycle All Day
You should carry your commitment to recycling with you throughout the day instead of leaving it behind as soon as you leave home. To make recycling a habit, it’s important to recycle everywhere you go. Place small recycling bins in bathrooms and bedrooms throughout the house so you never have to go too far to dispose of your waste in a responsible manner. Work with your employer to launch a recycling program in your office so you can continue to recycle while you’re at work. Recycling throughout the day will train your brain to remember to recycle no matter where you are.
Get Family Involved
It’s also a good idea to encourage your family to start recycling as well. You and your loved ones can work together to hold each other accountable and make sure that no one gives up on recycling. Plus, it’s important to teach kids about recycling at a young age so they carry this habit with them into adulthood.
Think Outside the Bin
Many items in your home are recyclable, but unfortunately, a number of them cannot be recycled through curbside programs. For example, electronic devices contain hazardous materials so they must be recycled at special facilities that don’t participate in curbside programs. Learn about the facilities in your community that process recyclable materials that cannot be tossed in bins. Thinking outside the bin can turn recycling into not just a habit, but a lifestyle.
Following these tips will allow you to turn recycling into a daily habit. As a result, recycling will not feel like such a chore, but rather a small part of your daily routine that just so happens to protect the planet. This is one habit you should never break!