As the country as a whole becomes concerned with saving landfill space and extending landfill life, each of us must learn what "household recycling" means and find out what we, as individuals, can do.

Did you know that each of us generates almost four pounds of solid waste a day? If we make recycling part of our everyday lives, we can reduce the solid waste problem. We can also stop wasting energy, forests, minerals, water and other natural resources.

Recycling conserves valuable natural resources such as bauxite (the original material used to make aluminum cans), water and trees. For example, every ton of recycled paper saves 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water!

Recycling also reduces our garbage volume and slows the rate at which we fill our landfill. This, in turn, holds down the amount our community spends on disposal.
Recycling also reduces manufacturing pollutants and saves energy. Each aluminum can we recycle will save enough electricity to operate a TV for three hours!

What can you do?

Recycling can also earn cash for individuals and organizations who collect recyclables. Last year Americans received more than $500 million for recycled aluminum alone! YOU can spread the word and make recycling part of your daily life:

• Purchase items in recyclable packages or purchase products in "bulk."
• Reuse items you would normally throw out. For example, use grocery sacks to store your recyclables or ask for your plastic garbage sacks back after using them to haul recyclables to a recycling center.
• Use recycling as a way to teach your children the importance of protecting the environment. Make it a lifetime habit for your whole family.
• Volunteer for the state "Adopt a Highway" program and pick up roadside litter.
• Encourage your friends, church members, co-workers and fellow club members to recycle. Be a volunteer!
• Make recycling a part of your outdoor ethics. Take along an extra bag to pick up litter when enjoying the outdoors.

Recycling is more than just a good idea. It is an important way we can show our concern for the environment. Remember, recycling does not happen by itself, it needs your support and participation!

The best way to start your own household recycling program is to start slow and then gradually add to the list of things you recycle. You might start with aluminum cans and newspapers, then add other items as you become familiar with what is recyclable and where it is collected.