These numbers can help show what a difference re-using and
recycling can make.
- If you use a printer at home or at work, don't discard the
empty printer cartridges - they can be re-used and recycled. According to the
office supply chain Office Depot, 2 1/2 pounds (1 kilogram) of metal and
plastic plus half a gallon (2 litres) of oil goes into making each ink and
toner cartridge. Simply recycling these items saves resources - and landfill
space.
- According to Resourceful Schools, the equivalent of 185
gallons of gas (700 litres of oil) is saved for every one ton of paper that is
recycled.
- Of course you're not using bottled water, are you? 25
million plastic bottles are discarded every HOUR! Many end up in the oceans and
cause problems for sea life.
- When electronic devices are ready to be replaced,
don't throw them out. Their toxic contents can seep out into the ground in
landfills. Many non-profit organizations will gladly take them and
re-distribute them where they are needed, or recycling companies will take them
and re-use their components. (Or better still, hang on to it for a bit longer
before buying new!)
