Many small things that we throw away can be recycled – store receipts, shredded personal papers, plastic caps. Opt in to go paperless if it is not essential for you to use paper at your job or school. According to the EPA, the recycling of one ton of paper can save 17 mature trees.

Before you take out your garbage, see if you can put more materials in your recycling bin than your waste bin.  Learn as much as you can about how to reduce, re-use, and recycle at home. 

Purchase a reusable water bottle and reduce buying
disposable plastic water bottles. Not only are you keeping your wallet green, you are also keeping the world green.

Instead of throwing clothes away, donate them! St. Vincent de Paul Society, Habitat for Humanity, and Goodwill are eager to receive used clothes.  

Instead of throwing away toys, donate them to those same organizations, or any other charitable organization in your area.

Repair things that can be repaired rather than buying new ones.  Reject the notion that just because it is “cheaper to buy a new one,” it is better.  

Take advantage of the recycling program offered by your waste hauler or check with the MassDEP for recycling centers near you.

Recycle electronics.  Many electronics stores accept cell phones, computer items, and even TVs for recycling. Check with MassDEP for a drop off location near you.

Recycle your vehicle. When you recycle your vehicle, some parts may be reused and you can rest easy knowing that it won’t end up in the landfill.

Have unique items that do not belong in the recycling bin? Check out the “Beyond The Bin Directory Recycling Directory” administered by MassDEP.

Use cloth or canvas bags at the grocery store.  Every year, literally trillions of plastic bags are manufactured around the world. Instead of using plastic bags, buy cloth bags or bags made from recycled materials.