Don't throw it away! Did you know that a lot of stuff people throw in the garbage can actually be reduced, re-used, recycled or composted? It also takes less energy and fewer resources like trees, oil and water to recycle than to make a brand new product.
Explore Environmental Elementary to discover what you don't have to toss in the garbage can.
- Did you know that over half the stuff people use every day can be recycled, re-used or composted instead of thrown away?
- Leaves and grass can be composted. Ask your teacher if your class can go outside and help rake them up. Then feed the worms in the compost bin!
- Don't forget the first "R" - Reduce! Reduce how much new paper you need by always writing on both sides.
- Is that shredded newspaper on the bottom of Hammy's cage? Yep! Did you know it can be composted?
- Recycled plastic bottles can be made into a lot more than just new bottles! The plastic is used to makes clothes, blankets and even carpets or floor tiles.
- Wait! Don't throw that paper towel in the trash. Brown paper towels are great for composting in your garden composter.
- Challenge yourself to bring a waste-free lunch by packing food in re-usable containers. You won't have any plastic wrap, baggies or packages to throw away. Think about how much waste you'll prevent!
- Did you know that some kinds of Styrofoam containers can now be recycled? Ask your teacher if your town or city recycles Styrofoam. Or, look it up on your town or city's website.
- Did you know it takes about 100 years for a drink can to decompose (break down) in a landfill? If you recycle the can it only takes about a month or so to make it into a new can!
- Juice boxes take up a lot of room in landfills. It takes years for them to decompose (break down). Ask your family to buy big bottles of juice. Then, pour some into a thermos or re-usable drink container for lunch!
- Sigh! Chip bags can't be recycled. Maybe tomorrow you can bring an apple for a snack. Don't forget to compost the core!
