MNN - Mother Nature Network

One of the biggest impediments to an effective recycling program is the trash can. Everywhere we go, it is far too easy to simply throw everything into a readily-accessible and all-to-easy-to-use trash bin. Only by making it easy to recycle will we ever see an increase in our recycling rates. Want to increase the amount of recyclables collected in your area? Make sure you have recycling bins competing with your garbage cans.
 
Only by placing recycling containers right next to the garbage can we ensure that they will be effectively used on a regular basis. For far too long, it has been far too easy to simply throw cans, bottles and paper into the trash bin. It’s time to make your recycle bins compete with the garbage. This will help increase the amount of recycling in your home or office and will increase the effectiveness of your recycling program. Best of all, it’s easier than you think. It’s all in the recycling bins you choose and where you place them.
 
When it comes to recycling in the home, it is very important to be sure that you use small, portable and preferably stackable recycling bins to compete with the garbage can in your house. By making recycling easy to do, you will make sure the members of your household participate fully in recycling. Furthermore, using a kitchen compost collector which is conveniently located can help divert a great deal of food scraps from your garbage can. Choose a compost bin which may be attached to a cupboard door or which easily fits atop your counter. Portable and effective compost bins make waste diversion easier than you think.
 
When it comes to competing with garbage cans at the office or workplace, the key is to choose centralized recycling bins that feature higher capacities and are thus more apt to be used effectively. If your office recycling containers are too small, they could fill up quickly and people may be inclined to toss recyclables into the trash. Another feature which allows your recycling containers to compete with the trash cans at work is clearly marked recycling signage. By communicating which recyclables go in which bins, you are encouraging people at your workplace to participate in your recycling program and help divert items from the waste stream.
 
Consider recycling bins which allow you to customize the signage so that you can add your own messages. You can use signage to educate people who may be unsure of what goes in the trash and what can be recycled. Using signage can be a very effective means of communicating messages as well. A sign which displays a “feel good” recycling fact or states how recycling can change the world will go a long way toward increasing participation in your program.
 
Implementing any of these steps will greatly increase participation in your recycling efforts by those around you. By allowing your recycling bins to compete with the traditional garbage can, you can help change the mindset of people and assist in the diversion of waste from our landfills. Give the recycling bin a fighting chance. Take action today!