The new year is often a time for self improvement and many people make resolutions to help them form good habits. One survey found that the most common resolution for 2021 was ‘making a positive change to the world around us’ and upping your recycling efforts is a great place to start.
Landfill sites release harmful gases like methane and carbon dioxide as waste breaks down, so the more we can recycle, the better. Recycling also reduces the amount of plastic that ends up in our oceans and it cuts down on the potentially harming mining processes needed to extract new resources. If you’re looking to cut down on your waste and be more environmentally conscious for the new year, see below for four recycling resolutions to get you started.
Ditch plastic bags
Make 2021 the year to ditch plastic bags for good. Many supermarkets now offer recycled plastic or paper alternatives, but it’s even better if you can remember to use your own. Get into the habit of keeping canvas or recycled plastic bags in your handbag or car; they’re better for the environment and much stronger and sturdier too.
Start a compost
If you’re the lucky owner of a garden, set up a compost heap or bin to help your plants thrive. Compost is a great way to recycle vegetable peelings, paper and other raw food scraps, and it’s packed with valuable vitamins and minerals for your garden. If you have the space and fancy some DIY, build a compost heap in a corner of the garden using old wooden pallets.
If you don’t have much room – not to worry – a small compost bin in your kitchen can be used to collect food waste.
Buy second hand
There’s been a big focus on ‘fast fashion’ in recent years and the damage that this does to the environment. If you’re looking to do your bit, try shopping second hand in vintage and charity shops. There are plenty of hidden gems to be uncovered and you might find a unique piece not seen on anyone else; plus, many older clothes are much better quality.
Look for plastic alternatives
As well as ditching the plastic bags, look for plastic alternatives to everyday items. There’s a wealth of products available nowadays, including bamboo toothbrushes, metal straws, steel water bottles and compostable plates and cutlery instead of one-use plastic varieties.
If you’re looking for reliable waste recycling services in Stoke On Trent or Newcastle Under Lyme, get in touch with the experts at Cherry Hill Waste. We’re committed to recycling as much waste as possible and currently recycle over 90% of all waste we collect. We can collect and process green waste, wood waste, construction debris, unwanted furnishings and more, so give us a call today or contact us online to find out more.
