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You've sorted all of your office paper, cardboard, aluminum, plastics, and newspapers. Now it's time to take it to the local recycling facility since your local pickup doesn't recycle to this extent. You're being an angel to the planet with your intention, but you're adding emissions to the atmosphere with your extra trip to the recycling center.
The most ideal solution is to petition your city or township to increase your recycling items so that curbside pickup is available to everyone. Aside from this utopian pickup option, you can save emissions with a little planning. Note the location of your recycling center and what's nearby. Do you drive to that area of town to pick up your prescriptions? Is it near your work? Couple your recycling drop-off with another errand to limit your emissions. If you're a die hard recycler anyway, you'll already have planned a more fuel efficient trip.
There's a recycling bin at the side of your house for office paper. Too big to tote to the center, it requires you to pack your paper into another container for transport. This isn't a problem unless you have a habit of grabbing one of the plastic trash bags. The next time you visit the recycling center, watch the people who dump office paper. They empty large plastic trash bags then pitch the bag into the trash bin. Their good deeds have been lessened by their lack of planning. Instead, package your recyclables in other recyclables. Use totes that are small enough to transport or package paper in cardboard boxes that can be tossed in the neighboring bin.
About The Author: Kelly Ann Butterbaugh is a freelance writer who regularly contributes to a variety of magazines and has written a history book for middle readers. Visit her website for writing help, lesson plans, history fun, or work for hire at http://www.kellybutterbaugh.com
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