According to Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Edward Humes, Americans generate over 7 pounds of waste every day. With the New Year now upon us, it’s time to bring with it a new way of thinking about our waste generation. The journey to a Zero Waste world starts with that first small step taken in the individual household, and it’s not as daunting as it may sound. Take that revitalizing New Year energy, put your “greenest” foot forward, and start helping to move your home and community towards a world of Zero Waste. Here are a few ways to get started.
Composting
According to the U.S. Composting Council, nearly two-thirds of the solid waste stream is made up of organic, perfectly compostable food and biodegradable material. Composting isn’t that difficult; you can do it yourself in your backyard, or see if there is a community composting program near you for your organic waste. Programs like the Princeton Curbside Food Waste program in Princeton, NJ, will pick up the organic waste from bins placed outside your home for composting.
E-Cycling
Every American household has about 24 electronic products, according to the EPA. Donating old appliances to thrift stores or organizations like Goodwill is good alternative, or you can also use resources like Earth911 (earth911.com) to search specifically in your area for establishments that recycle various electronics. The EPA’s website provides information about state-specific laws and resources on the recycling of electronic products as well.
Books and Clothing
Most people can’t stand the thought of throwing away old yet perfectly good books and clothing, but finding out where to donate them can sometimes present a challenge. Most local libraries will accept used books, and the American Library Association’s website (ala.org) has a good directory of book donation programs. You can also check out the Salvation Army’s Family Stores website (satruck.org) to arrange a pickup of clothing, and other household items, or search for a drop-off location near you.
Zero Waste Boxes
The Zero Waste Box is the newest innovation from recycling company TerraCycle, allowing anyone to recycle almost all household waste. The boxes range in price based on the level of separation involved in the recycling process. Some boxes are room-specific (e.g. bathroom or bedroom waste) while others are category-based (e.g. kitchen supplies or alkaline batteries). The premium Zero Waste Box, the No Separation Box, even lets you recycle all non-hazardous, non-recyclable, and non-organic waste in your home.
You can learn more about the program at www.zerowasteboxes.terracycle.com/. Remember, every little thing you do to eliminate the waste generated in your own home brings us all one step closer to a world of Zero Waste!
As Director of U.S. Public Relations for TerraCycle, Inc., the world’s leading upcycling and recycling company, Lauren Taylor helps manage various public relations programs and campaigns of TerraCycle and its brand partners.
TerraCycle converts difficult-to-recycle packaging and products into eco-friendly, affordable items available at major retailers. When not at work, Lauren encourages her husband and stepsons to protect the planet and tries to make her household environmentally friendly through composting, recycling and buying local.
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