The Weekly Green - Tip #8

Tip #8 - Simple Recycling

Sometimes the convenience of the garbage can under the sink wins out over recycling. 

One simple way to try to change the habit of throwing everything away is to put another small garbage can or bin next to your regular can under the sink, meant for recyclables only!  That way, with a simple flick of the wrist, you can choose between garbage-garbage, and recycling!  

You can take it one step further and add a third small can under there for glass, so that you don't have to separate that later!  To make room, organize and reduce the number of household cleaners you have under your sink - you probably don't need all those different types of cleaners anyways!  Click HERE for my post about Vinegar cleaner.  You can also add an organizer so your cleaners can hang out on the door (within easy reach!) instead of falling to the back of the cabinet, making room for another garbage can or small bin.  You can also use the brown paper bags from your last shopping trip to organize your cleaners, or for use as your recycle bins.

One more step further is to keep some sort of a small compost container to your routine.  If you don't want to have a compost pail on your counter or under your sink, you can use a sealable tupperware container you keep in the refrigerator to put kitchen scraps in until you are ready to take it out to the compost.  Just don't get it mixed up with your leftovers!  Click HERE for more info about composting.

When you do these steps above, you will be amazed at the reduced amount of garbage waste!  It also makes you more aware of the trash you actually produce.  You may even be able to save some money by going to the next size down for your curbside garbage can!  Or, if you get your neighbor in on it, you can split the cost of garbage bill and share one curbside can!

Stay tuned next week for Tip #9!