Recycling tips

Landfill has been an issue for decades; the concern about squandering energy and resources is more recent, but no less urgent. Australians have taken up the recycling challenge in overwhelming numbers. For those who travel, it can be a shock to realise domestic recycling is not a global given.

There are two ways to approach your personal level of waste production. The first is to think before you buy and approach each transaction with an inquiring mind. Choosing a brand based on packaging rather than price, taking distance travelled into account and giving priority to manufacturers who have made a commitment to green practices will all make a difference. The second approach is to ensure your household recycling system is comprehensive and adheres to your local council guidelines.

There’s more to recycling than simply tossing plastic, paper, tin and glass into a tub. While every region has slightly different rules, some basics apply to all. Wash before you toss; use bath or washing-up water to clean containers and remove labels before putting them in their bin − food scraps and congealed milk won’t help the recycling process. Separate methodically; it only takes one piece of plastic in with the glass to interrupt the entire process.

Planet Ark are an excellent source of credible information; November 26, 2007 marks their twelfth National Recyling Week.

For more information, visit www.planetark.org.au.

 

Photography: Scott Hawkins. Styling: Aimee Jones.