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ecycling is an eco-friendly practice meant to protect the planet for future generations. According to researchers at Duke University, the average person generates around 4.3 pounds of waste daily. While recycling programs help to preserve resources and help reduce waste, even the most ardent recycling enthusiasts never see the end results of their recycling efforts. That reality can negatively affect the motivation people have to continue recycling. While adults might not need to see the impact their recycling efforts are having, curious kids may need to
witness the fruits of their recycling efforts firsthand. Schools or youth groups looking to become involved with recycling efforts can do so in various ways. For example, one organization makes it relatively easy to recycle many different common goods and turn them into fundraising dollars for schools or put money earned via recycling efforts toward a charity of choice. The TerraCycle company was founded in 2001 by Princeton University freshman Tom Szaky. The company began by collecting worm droppings to be used as organic fertilizer.
he first Earth Day took place in 1970, giving a voice to a growing movement that espoused the importance of addressing environmental issues and adopting eco-friendly lifestyles. This year, Earth Day takes place on April 22. The late Wisconsin senator Gaylord Nelson is credited with coming up with the idea for a day devoted to focusing on environmental issues affecting the entire planet. Nelson was reportedly inspired by the vehement student anti-Vietnam War movement that took root in the United States in the late 1960s and continued into the 1970s. Senator Nelson felt that if he could inspire similar passion among the masses about environmental issues,
Since its meager beginnings, TerraCycle has expanded into a recycling and environmental awareness powerhouse. The company’s goal is to “be a trusted resource for families, schools,
According to researchers at Duke University, the average person generates around 4.3 pounds of waste daily. communities, and even corporations to find tips, stats, facts, tactics, and news to help them live a greener, cleaner lifestyle.” Today the company works with hundreds of major brands, both domestically and internationally, to collect and repurpose products that would normally be relegated to the trash and end up in landfills. The “waste” is then transformed into new products that can be purchased online or through select retailers.
then those issues would force their way into the national agenda. Senator Nelson’s intuition proved correct, and on April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans gathered in streets, parks and auditoriums to demonstrate against policies and practices that contributed to the deterioration of the environment. Today, Earth Day has spreadfar beyond U.S. borders and is now observed in 192 countries across the globe. New initiatives continue to be proposed as the world population grows increasingly aware of the effects of climate change and the role ordinary citizens can play to protect the environment every day.
TerraCycle heads up recycling Brigades®, which collects certain products in exchange for program points. These points build up and can be redeemed for merchandise, charitable donations or funds for a school or other group. Examples of participating brands include CapriSun®, Colgate®, Entenmann’s®, MOM Brands®, and PUR®. The company also offers Zero Waste Boxes® that collect various everyday products. The waste will then be upcycled into new materials. Anyone can register and begin recycling their traditional waste items. The programs from TerraCycle have helped scouting groups, schools, offices, nonprofits, and many other organizations. Programs are often free, and the company also offers complementary shipping labels. Simply ship your waste, and they will take care of the rest and credit your account. Learn more at TerraCycle.com. In addition to innovative programs such as TerraCycle’s, people can continue to conserve resources by participating in neighborhood recycling efforts. Remember to separate plastic, aluminum, glass, paper, and cardboard from regular trash items before recycling.