Welcome waste gurus!
Are you looking for ways to get your household recycling program running more efficiently? Then look no further than this comprehensive blog with 5 recycling tips that will save you time and money, and make the process fun for the whole family. Best of all, these tips are specifically tailored to Australian households.
Tip #1: Set Up a Visual Recycling System
Having a designated spot in your home to easily deposit recyclables is key. Label each bin with clear descriptions so the entire family, including children, know which items to put in each bin. Setting up a colour coding system depending on the materials being recycled, like green for paper and cardboard, and blue for plastic and glass. This will make it easier for children, and the entire family, to process and recycle items.
Tip #2: Take It Outside
Having a designated zone outside for your general waste bin, recycling bin and green waste bin will give your family a neat and organised recycling system. Place it in an area that is accessible for the whole family, and remember to take the time to educate your family on what materials go into each bin.
Tip #3: Reuse, Recycle Materials
Prioritising the use of existing materials that you already own at home can drastically reduce waste and save money. Try to think of new ways to use everyday items that you would normally discard, like reusing yogurt pots as plant pots or using an old t-shirt as a washcloth when cleaning. Recycled materials can also be used for various craft projects. Make sure to check out your local second-hand shops or recycling centre first before tossing out any item.
Tip #4: Make It Fun
Involving the entire family in the recycling process is a great way to make recycling interesting. Providing incentives and rewards will make them more engaged in the process. Dedicating a weekend to a recycling sorting activity is another great way to make the activity fun and efficient.
Tip #5: Containers for Change
Australia is now home to a fantastic program to reduce landfill waste: Containers for Change. Supported in all states except NSW, this program incentivises households to hand in eligible drink containers at approved drop-off points for 10¢ cashback. This is a great way to get the entire family involved in recycling and make money while helping the environment. For more information about Containers for Change contact your local government.
Now that you have the know-how, it’s time to take action! Encourage the family to get involved in recycling to help inspire a sustainable lifestyle.
To help you get started, here are three leading non-profit organisations that are making a mark in the recycling world:
– Planet Ark: An Australian non-profit organisation which encourages the nation to reduce, reuse and recycle
– Boomerang Alliance: A national alliance of Australian environmental and conservation organisations tackling plastic pollution
– Clean Up Australia: An independent, not-for-profit, environmental organisation
