Turn Everyday Habits Into Greener Waste Management at Home

‍

1. Educate Yourself on Accepted Materials

Before you start separating your organic waste, familiarize yourself with the types of materials accepted by your program. Common organic waste does include most food items, but some programs may also include other organic materials as well. This varies from program to program, so make sure to look up items like yard waste, leaves, compostable plastics, and other biodegradable products such as paper towels. These items may or may not be allowed in your organics collection program. Knowing what your program accepts is the best way to help it thrive.

2. Invest in Suitable Containers

Invest in durable and appropriately sized containers for collecting organic waste in your home. Some municipalities may provide these items, while others will have a list of acceptable bags and containers. Consider using sealable bins or compost pails with tight-fitting lids to prevent odors and minimize the risk of attracting pests. Check with your program to see if they require organics collection to be loose or in bags. It is important to note that not all compostable or biodegradable bags on the market are suitable for organic waste collection, so it is best to see what your program recommends.

3. Establish a Convenient Collection System

Designate a convenient location in your kitchen or backyard for storing organic waste containers. Consider placing your organic waste bins near your food preparation area for easy access while cooking. Convenience is key to building the habit of proper organic waste disposal.  

Tip: If you have space in your freezer, consider keeping your compost in there until waste collection day. This will minimize the smell and make cleanup easier.  

If your program also accepts any outdoor organic waste, such as leaves, grass clippings, or weeds, keep an outdoor bin as well. Not all programs combine these two, so make sure to check how your program handles yard waste.  

4. Practice Proper Waste Separation

To maximize the effectiveness of organic waste collection, practice proper waste separation throughout your household. Encourage family members to separate organic waste from recyclables and other non-organic waste. Label containers or bins clearly to avoid confusion and ensure successful adherence to local collection guidelines.  

If you have multiple people residing in the same household, you may even want to post a note for each bin on what goes where based on the materials your home typically uses. Posting picture guides for kids can help them learn correct sorting easily.  

5. Make it a Habit

Getting used to organic waste collection can take a bit of practice, but if you try to establish a routine, you'll be able to hit the ground running. Setting up a process in your household can help establish good habits. You could do this by establishing specific days or times that the indoor bin gets emptied to avoid bad smells. You could also establish a routine while cooking by keeping a plate next to your cutting board to gather up scraps for the bin. Building habits to your existing routines can help boost the amount of organic waste collected.

Embrace Sustainable Waste Management Practices

Participating in organic waste collection is a proactive step towards sustainable living and environmental stewardship. By adopting these practical tips and integrating organic waste collection into your daily routine, you can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving natural resources, and promoting soil health in your community.

From Solar to Storage: Clean Tech That’s Changing the World

The ongoing search for sustainable and eco-friendly power has led to remarkable advancements in the field of renewable energy.

Researchers, engineers, and innovators are tirelessly working to develop cutting-edge solutions as various sectors grapple with the challenges of climate change and strive to reduce their carbon footprints.

Here are some of the most exciting innovations shaping the future of renewable energy, from solar power to wind energy and beyond.

1.    Energy storage breakthroughs

One of the challenges of renewable energy sources like solar and wind is their intermittent nature. Storage technologies are crucial for overcoming this hurdle. Battery technology advancements, particularly the development of high-capacity and long-life batteries, are transforming the landscape.

Solid-state batteries promise higher energy density, faster charging times, and enhanced safety compared to traditional lithium-ion versions. These innovations pave the way for more reliable and efficient storage systems, ultimately supporting the integration of renewable power into the mainstream grid.

2.    Tidal and wave energy

Using the power of the ocean's tides and waves is an area of renewable energy that's gaining traction. Seawater is 832 times denser than air, making it a much more efficient source. Innovative technologies, such as underwater turbines and oscillating water columns, are being developed to capture the immense energy potential of our oceans.

These technologies provide a consistent and reliable energy source and have minimal visual impact, addressing some concerns associated with other forms of renewable power. They also have a lower environmental footprint, as they don't require large land areas and can be situated offshore.

3.    Advancements in wind energy

Wind energy is the largest renewable energy source in the United States, powering 10.1% of the country and continuing to grow. It continues to evolve with breakthroughs in onshore and offshore technologies.

Floating wind farms can tap into deeper waters where traditional fixed turbines are impractical. This innovation expands the geographical range for harnessing wind energy, making it possible to generate power in previously inaccessible locations.

Additionally, blade design and materials developments are improving wind turbines' efficiency and durability. These innovations increase energy output and contribute to reducing maintenance costs, making wind power even more economically viable.

4.    Hydrogen as clean fuel

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising clean fuel that can be produced using eco-friendly energy sources. Green hydrogen, produced through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity, is gaining momentum as a viable carrier.

This versatile gas can be used in various sectors, including transportation, industry, and heating, offering a green alternative to conventional fossil fuels.

5.    Renewable diesel

With fuel prices on the rise year after year, the search for alternatives has become more urgent. Renewable diesel represents a significant innovation in sustainable transportation fuels, offering a cleaner and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional diesel derived from fossil fuels. It's created through a hydroprocessing method involving the hydrogenation of triglycerides and fatty acids.

This process results in a fuel that's nearly identical to petroleum-based diesel, making it compatible with existing engines and infrastructure. It delivers over 50% reduction in greenhouse gases when compared to petroleum-based diesel.

6.    Next-gen solar technologies

Solar energy holds enormous potential. Every 90 minutes, enough sunlight reaches the Earth's surface to meet the entire population's electricity demands for a year.

Solar power remains a frontrunner in the renewable energy race, and recent innovations are making it more efficient and accessible. Perovskite solar cells have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional silicon-based cells. They boast high-efficiency levels and are more cost-effective to produce, potentially revolutionizing the solar power landscape.

Manufacturers are also developing transparent solar panels for integration into windows, turning everyday surfaces into energy-generating assets. These innovations enhance power production and open up new possibilities for urban integration.

Additionally, advancements in bifacial solar panels enhance energy capture by using light reflected off surfaces, such as rooftops or the ground. This dual-sided absorption significantly increases the overall power yield, making solar installations more productive and efficient.

7.    Rechargeable tires

In the pursuit of sustainable transportation solutions, innovators have turned their attention to an unexpected component of vehicles - tires. Rechargeable tires involve integrating technology to harness and store energy during motion. This can power various automotive parts, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and contributing to increased fuel efficiency.

The rechargeable tire concept typically involves incorporating piezoelectric materials or electromagnetic generators within the structure. As the car moves, these components convert the mechanical energy generated by the friction between the tire and the road into electrical power. This is then stored in a battery integrated into the vehicle's tire.

The stored energy could power onboard sensors, lighting systems, or even electric components, reducing the overall power demand on the vehicle and enhancing its efficiency. While this concept is still relatively new, experts expect the market to grow exponentially in the coming years.

Hope for a greener future

The renewable energy sector is experiencing a rapid transformation fueled by groundbreaking innovations. From enhancing the efficiency of existing technologies to exploring new frontiers like hydrogen and tidal energy, these developments are driving humanity closer to a sustainable and cleaner future.

The dream of a world powered by green power becomes increasingly attainable as products evolve, offering hope for a greener and more sustainable planet.

Author Bio

Oscar Collins is the editor-in-chief at Modded. He has extensive experience writing about sustainability, green living, and electric vehicles, contributing to publications like Earth911, Mindset Eco, and Green Union. Follow him on Twitter @TModded for frequent updates on his work.

These days, paper cups have a bad rap. That's because they're designed to be used only once before getting tossed out.

We go through something like half a trillion disposable cups each year, or about seventy cups for every person on the planet. And to meet hygiene requirements, most of them are made out of virgin materials, i.e. real trees. Not recycled paper. Doesn't sound very sustainable, does it? Well, that's because it isn't.

Unlike most paper items, paper cups can't be recycled because they're actually coated in plastic as little as five percent per cup. That's why they're able to hold liquid without leaking all over the place. It's also why they don't get broken down into pulp and turned into recycled paper. While some communities do recycle materials like paper coffee cups, they're very rare. And only getting rarer. Unfortunately, there's just not much of a market for them, which means soda fountain cups, coffee cups, and those little sippy cups your dentist gives you all end up getting landfilled.

Not all paper cups are coated in plastic, though the vast majority are. Less frequently, some are actually lined in wax. Determining which is which can be difficult, though, which is why we advise treating them the same way. If, however, you're certain that your cup is coated in wax, you might be able to compost it, either at home or through your community's organics program, should they have one. You can check to confirm whether they're accepted using our app.

Though you probably can't recycle paper cups in your community, plastic lids and the corrugated sleeves your coffee comes in are probably fair game. You could also reduce the seventy cups or so you contribute to the global share by exploring alternatives that are more sustainable. There are plenty of places where you can buy reusable cups, including your local coffee shop.

In the meantime, some of the best and brightest are looking at tackling the single-use paper cup problem. Freiburg, a city in Germany, has an interesting solution: the Freiburg Cup. It's a hard-plastic reusable cup that's supplied to participating businesses by the city and it only costs customers a Ǩ1 deposit. Even Starbuck's is getting in on the action. Recently, they partnered up with Closed Loop to develop a recyclable, compostable cup.

Until that happens, remember: though they're paper, in most municipalities, paper cups go in the trash!

Reducing Plastic Waste at Home

Reducing plastic waste at home can have a huge impact on the environment, but it's not without its challenges. There are many different types of plastic, and the recycling process can be a challenge for many municipalities due to the technology needed, varying recovery equipment, and different end markets. It's crucial to check which items are accepted in your local program.

This guide will help you understand the likelihood of recycling various single-use plastic items while sharing tips to avoid using single-use plastics whenever possible.

Plastic Water Bottles

Recyclability: Plastic water bottles are highly sought after by recycling centers. Nearly all recycling facilities accept these bottles, typically made from PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate #1), which are highly recyclable.

Tip: Use a reusable water bottle. Metal is the most sustainable choice!

Plastic Straws

Recyclability: Plastic straws are usually made from #2 Polypropylene or #5 Polyethylene plastics. However, their small size makes them problematic for sorting machines.

Tip: Avoid straws altogether if possible, or use biodegradable straws made from paper or bamboo.

Food Storage Containers

Recyclability: Tupperware and similar containers are sustainable for reuse but may not be recyclable due to food contamination concerns. Check local guidelines for acceptance.

Tip: Reuse containers until they are no longer usable. Consider switching to glass containers for longer product lifespans.

Black Plastic Containers

Recyclability: Many take-out containers are made from black plastic, which is rarely accepted in recycling due to sorting issues.

Tip: Reuse these containers for food storage or donate them to local food shelters.

Plastic Cutlery

Recyclability: Traditional plastic cutlery is often made from #5 Polypropylene or #6 Polystyrene. While #5 is accepted in many places, #6 is not, and they often end up in landfills.

Tip: Use regular silverware or choose compostable cutlery when disposables are necessary.

Yogurt Cups

Recyclability: Many recycling programs accept yogurt cups, but cleanliness is crucial. If they can't be rinsed, it's better to toss them in the garbage.

Tip: Buy in bulk to reduce the number of containers you dispose of. Larger containers also provide reusable storage for leftovers.

Reducing and Recycling

There are many more ways to reduce plastic waste in your home, but hopefully, this guide gives you a good start. Knowing what is and isn't accepted in your local recycling program is key to maintaining a sustainable and eco-friendly household.

Recycling contamination is a growing issue, and it's more important than ever to recycle smarter. Tossing items you think can be recycled into your bin can actually lead to problems for recycling facilities, costing municipalities a lot of money in disposal fees and risking the entire recycling system. Let's dive into some easy tips to keep your recycling clean and effective!

1. Soft paper products go in the garbage

You might think paper towels, napkins, and facial tissues are recyclable since they're made of paper. But here's the deal: they're usually too soiled and made from fibers that can't be recycled. Instead, check if your municipality accepts them in an organic collection program or compost.

Pro Tip: Switch to reusable options! Cloth towels and napkins are great sustainable alternatives, and some companies even offer washable fabric options to replace disposable paper.

2. Rinse your containers

A quick rinse is all it takes! Containers with leftover food residue can contaminate other recyclables, like paper and cardboard. Wet cardboard is a no-go for recycling facilities and can end up in a landfill.

Pro Tip: You don't need a full scrub down! A simple rinse in leftover dishwater or a shake with a little water can get the job done. Let them dry a bit to keep them from dampening other materials in your bin.

3. Get rid of food grease

Food grease is a big issue for recycling. Greasy pizza boxes or sandwich wrappers can't be sorted out and will ruin a whole batch of paper products during processing.

Pro Tip: Remove the greasy parts of pizza boxes and toss them in the garbage, leaving only the clean parts for recycling.

4. No plastic bags in the bin

Plastic bags are major recycling troublemakers! They can get tangled in recycling facility equipment and pose risks for workers.

Pro Tip: Collect your plastic bags and take them to a store with a drop-off recycling bin instead of tossing them in your home bin.

5. Donate extra plastic containers

Many curbside recycling programs don't accept black plastic takeout containers. They often end up contaminating other recyclables.

Pro Tip: Clean them out and donate to local food kitchens that distribute meals to those in need.

6. Know which plastics are accepted

Not all plastics are treated the same. Different facilities accept different types of plastics, so tossing in something not accepted can lead to contamination.

Pro Tip: Look for the recycling symbol on the packaging and check the number. #1 and #2 plastics are usually safe, but #3-7 can vary by location.

7. Don't throw batteries in the recycling bin

Batteries, especially lithium-ion ones, can be dangerous in recycling bins due to fire risks and chemical leaks.

Pro Tip: Use programs like Call2Recycle to drop off or mail in your batteries safely.

8. Coffee cups go in the garbage

Paper coffee cups might look recyclable, but they have a plastic lining that makes them a no-go for most curbside programs.

Pro Tip: Bring a reusable coffee mug! It's better for the environment and will reduce waste.

9. Check freezer box labels

Frozen food boxes often contain plastic or wax linings that can't be recycled with regular cardboard.

Pro Tip: Choose fresh foods when possible, or use reusable containers for freezing.

10. Dispose of hazardous materials properly

Recycling facilities often struggle with hazardous waste. Many items need special disposal methods, so don't toss them in your home recycling bin.

Pro Tip: Look up local disposal options for hazardous waste, electronics, and bulky items with your local program.

Recycling can feel overwhelming, but with a little planning, you can help keep our environment clean and our recycling facilities running smoothly. Remember to check with your municipality about what's accepted and use the Recycle Coach app to find out what goes where. By being informed and reducing contamination, we can all contribute to a healthier planet!

Books hold a special place in many people's hearts. They entertain, educate, and transport us to different worlds. However, as much as we love our books, there comes a time when we need to part ways with them. Whether it's due to decluttering, moving homes, or simply outgrowing our collections, disposing of books responsibly is essential for maintaining sustainability and minimizing waste.

Sustainable book disposal practices

Let's explore sustainable disposal practices to minimize waste and environmental impact:‍

1. ‍Donate: One of the most sustainable ways to dispose of books is to donate them. Consider donating books to local libraries, schools, community centers, or charity organizations. By giving books a second life, you not only prevent them from ending up in landfills but also provide resources to those in need.‍
2. Book Swaps: Organize or participate in book swap events within your community. Book swaps allow individuals to exchange books they no longer need for ones they're interested in reading. It's a sustainable way to refresh your reading collection without purchasing new books and promotes a culture of sharing within the community.‍
3. Sell or Trade: If your books are in good condition and hold some value, consider selling or trading them. Online marketplaces, secondhand bookstores, and garage sales are excellent options for selling or trading books. By giving books a new home, you extend their lifespan.‍
4. Recycle Responsibly: When recycling books, ensure you follow proper recycling guidelines. Remove any non-paper components, such as plastic covers or bindings, and separate them for disposal. If in doubt, check with your local recycling facility by using the What Goes Where search tool to determine what can and cannot be recycled.‍
5. Upcycle: Get creative with old books by upcycling them into new creations. From art projects and DIY home decor to gift wrapping and journal making, there are countless ways to repurpose old books and give them new life.

Are books recyclable?

Books are primarily made of paper a recyclable material. However, not all books are created equal when it comes to recyclability. Here's what you need to know:

Paperback books

Paperback books are typically fully recyclable. The covers are usually made of paperboard, while the pages are made of paper. Before recycling, remove any non-paper components such as plastic covers or bindings.

Hardcover books

While most hardcover books can be recycled as is, some may present a bit of a challenge due to their binding. The pages are recyclable like those of paperback books, but the hardcover itself sometimes contains materials like cloth, leather, or plastic. For these types of hardcover books, remove the cover and separate it from the pages. The pages can then be recycled with other paper materials, while the cover may need to be disposed of separately.

Specialty books

Some books come with additional components like CDs, DVDs, or plastic inserts. These components may not be recyclable and should be removed before recycling the rest of the book. Check the What Goes Where search tool for disposal of any of these additional items.

Books are more than just objects they're sources of knowledge, inspiration, and imagination. By adopting sustainable practices for book disposal, we can preserve the value of books while minimizing our environmental footprint. Whether it's donating, swapping, selling, or recycling, every action we take contributes to sustainable practices. So, the next time you find yourself with a stack of old books, remember the importance of responsible disposal and be sure to look up your local disposal guidelines in the What Goes Where search tool.

Eco-Friendly Party Supplies: Sustainable Alternatives for Your Next Celebration

Are you throwing a party and looking for some eco-friendly party supplies to help you reduce your waste? Keeping your event sustainable can be tricky with all the options for single-use plastics and disposable items. Parties can end up filling up your garbage bins since many party supplies are not recyclable. Let's look at the most common party supply items and some sustainable alternatives you can try to reduce your event waste.

Balloons

Balloons are not accepted for recycling. In fact, this fun-filled decoration causes a lot more problems than you may realize. Balloon litter is a pervasive problem due to balloon releases. When you do a balloon release at a party or event, those plastic or foil balloons can harm aquatic life or wildlife. Many animals ingest balloon fragments or get entangled in the plastic or ribbon.

Swap balloons for:

• Planting a tree as a special commemoration instead of releasing balloons.
• Adding a festive element with a bubble machine.
• Hanging cardboard cutouts instead of balloons.

Crepe Paper Streamers

While stringing up crepe paper streamers creates a stunning display, the waste it generates is significant. Crepe paper is not recyclable because the paper fibers are broken down into the smallest usable pieces, which cannot be recycled into anything new.

Swap crepe paper for:‍

• Fabric strips or bunting that can be used over and over.
• Rerolling crepe paper to use a second or third time, although it breaks easily.
• Hanging reusable paper lanterns as decorations instead of disposable streamers.

Birthday Cake Candles

Candles are not accepted for recycling but are reusable. Birthday candles do not need to be thrown away after one use!

Instead of tossing candles:

• Use a single ornate candle instead of many to represent an age.
• Reuse candles year after year.‍
• ‍Melt down candle remnants and combine them with a new wick to create a decorative candle for your home.

Disposable Plastic Cups

The classic red Solo cup! These cups are 50/50 on recyclability, depending on your location.

Swap plastic cups for:

• Your glassware or reusable plastic cups, reducing plastic waste despite the extra dishes.‍
• ‍Asking guests to bring their own reusable bottle or travel mug, especially for outdoor BBQs.‍
• ‍Labeling disposable cups so only one cup is used per guest to minimize waste.

Paper Plates

Many think that since paper plates are made of paper, they can be recycled, but that's not usually the case. Many paper plates have a plastic coating, making them difficult to recycle.

Instead of paper plates, try:

• Using regular plates, reducing waste but increasing dishes.
• Serving food in reusable take-out containers for easy leftovers.
• Offering finger foods to reduce waste and cleanup.

Plastic Cutlery

Single-use plastic contributes significantly to plastic pollution, and very few recycling programs accept plastic cutlery.

Swap plastic cutlery for:

• Your normal silverware.
• Finger foods to avoid the need for cutlery.
• Bamboo cutlery, an organic option that decomposes more easily.

Napkins

Napkins are necessary for parties but not recyclable due to their small paper fibers and common soiling with food.

Swap paper napkins for:

• Cloth napkins, which can be washed and reused.
• Towel stations near garbage cans for guests.
• Hand sanitizer stations for guests to clean their hands.

Plastic Tablecloths

Disposable plastic tablecloths make cleanup easy but are not sustainable as they cannot be easily recycled.

Swap for:

• Traditional cloth tablecloths that are reusable after washing.
• Compostable tablecloths for easy backyard composting.

Going without a tablecloth and adding a flower center piece instead.Make sure you know the disposal rules of all your party decor and tableware by checking your local municipality for what is accepted. Always choose an eco-friendly option to reduce your waste. Party on!

Paper cartons and containers are a fantastic source of recyclable material. From milk cartons to mixed-material containers, let's explore some best practices for recycling and the benefits of getting these materials processed correctly.

Milk and juice cartons

Recyclability: Milk and juice cartons (or gable top cartons) are made from multiple layers, including paper, plastic, and aluminum to keep drinks fresh. About 75% of these cartons are paperboard, which recycling facilities love!

But beware: not all recycling centers accept these cartons due to the challenges of separating materials. It's best to check with your local program to see if they take these!

Tetra-Pak cartons

Tetra Pak cartons, like juice boxes and wine cartons, are also made of multiple materials. While they can be tricky to recycle, many facilities now accept them thanks to Tetra Pak's sustainability efforts. They have special processes to recover most of the material.

Just like with milk cartons, check if your local program collects Tetra Pak items.

Spiral cardboard cans

Spiral cardboard cans (like those used for potato chips) are often misunderstood. Many facilities don't accept them because they combine paper and metal. If your program does accept them, remove any plastic lids before recycling.

Some newer versions are made entirely of paper, so if yours is plastic-free and clean, you can recycle it with other paper products!

Corrugated cardboard boxes

Cardboard boxes are recycling champions! Almost every recycling facility takes them. Just remember to flatten those boxes before tossing them in your bin to save space and make things easier for the workers.

Recycling cardboard saves energy and water, and it helps reduce deforestation since fewer trees need to be cut down!

Cardboard cartons

Thin cardboard packaging, like cereal and cracker boxes, is also recyclable. These boxes are great for recovering paper fibers, making them more sustainable than plastic packaging.

Check that your cartons are made from 100% paper. Some frozen food boxes might have plastic or wax linings, so double-check with your local program.

And yes, flatten them before recycling!

Egg cartons

Egg cartons, like those fast-food drink holders, are recyclable too! If your facility takes cardboard, they'll likely accept these shaped containers. Plus, they're often made from recycled paper!

Feeling eco-friendly? You can even compost them as part of your brown materials. Just remember to check about plastic or polystyrene egg cartons with your local recycling guidelines.

Paper take-out containers

Many restaurants are switching to paper take-out containers, but they often have plastic linings, making them non-recyclable. If your take-out containers aren't lined with plastic, you can compost them instead!

Check your local program

While many paper products are widely accepted, it's always a good idea to check your local recycling program's guidelines. Don't assume something is recyclable just because it looks like it! Some items might have plastic or wax linings that aren't accepted.