It’s needless to say that there’s no shortage of plastic in the Roswell area.
Between the sheer amount of straws given out at restaurants to the load of plastic bottles you can find on the side of the road, there’s no doubt that we need to make a change.
However, while some may struggle to see that we need to make changes in our lives to help the environment long term, others may find it difficult to actually make the change.
So, we’re throwing it back to elementary school and reminding everyone of the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
I know, I know, it’s something we were taught at a very young age, right?
As we get older, the three R’s slowly slip into the back of our minds. I mean, we no longer do those big earth day projects anymore, do we? That’s why it’s important that we keep the three R’s in our heads at all times, as it’s one of the steps towards a greener future for us and generations to come.
So, let’s start off by talking about the most well-known R: Recycling.
For any of those unfamiliar with recycling, it means “the action or process of converting waste into reusable material”.
Here in Fulton County, we can recycle metals (aluminum, steel, tin), glass (bottles, jars), plastics 1, 2, 5 (including grocery bags, bubble wrap, and shrink wrap), and cardboard.
And, while it’s great that so many people in Fulton County recycle, we could take it a step further—which brings us to our next R: reusing.
For example, instead of recycling cardboard, you could find another use for it. You could use it for storage or as a way to mail gifts down to family and friends. As for plastics, you, too, could use it for storage (for cereal, snacks, etc.) and other household needs. And, for all those Pinterest lovers out there, Mason Jars have a variety of uses.
While reusing is another amazing way to help the environment, we could take it even further than that. How, you may ask?
We could reduce our use of single use items. Yes, I know, it seems impossible, doesn’t it? Well, it may be easier than it seems.
For those who haven’t heard of reducing, it means to “make smaller or less in amount, degree, or size.”
If we were to stop purchasing one-use items, such as Q-tips, straws, and water bottles, we would be a few steps closer to being eco-friendly.
If you’re concerned that you won’t be able to make the switch (or worried about the cost of going eco-friendly)—you don’t have to worry. After all, you can make small switches along the way, rather than completely giving up everything at one time.
In order to make the switch, and help the earth in the long run, you need to go into it with an open mind and positive attitude. Instead of fearing the change, be open minded. Remember that you’re doing this for future generations, wildlife, and, most importantly, to save your earth.
You may be one person, and while that may not seem like a huge difference, one person is all we need to get more on board with the idea of a greener and brighter future.
Below, we’ve compiled a short list of links to eco-friendly switches you can make from your average, every day, one-use products. With your help, we can end climate change and lower our carbon footprint.