Take Action!
In Atlanta, recycling means helping the environment and creating jobs—and you can help! Whether you teach a neighbor how to recycle or start a recycling program at your work or business, your efforts can go a long way and make a huge impact. So, Go for the Green… Recycle!
Sign up to volunteer! We’ll send you information when interesting volunteer opportunities arise. Email us at info@atlantarecycles.org
Help your neighbors. Many people do not recycle simply because they are not sure how to get started! Spread the word on which materials can be recycled and how to get a bin. (City of Atlanta residents can call the Recycling Hotline at 404.792.1212.)
Buy Products with Post-Consumer Recycled Content. Post-consumer recycled content means that the product is made from materials collected through recycling programs.
Look for paper made with at least 30% post-consumer recycled content. Pre-consumer recycled content means that the item contains "waste" material generated during the manufacturing process. Be on the lookout for Processed chlorine free (PCF.) In order to make paper white, paper fibers are bleached. PCF means that the bleaching process uses no chlorine or chlorine derivatives, thereby eliminating toxic by-products associated with chlorine, such as dioxins.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore: Whether you're looking to donate or purchase house-materials from faucets to doors, make a visit to The Restore.
The ReStore has diverted over 1,000 tons of materials from the landfil this year, just by recycling items to a new owner. For more information, visit The ReStore’s website at www.atlantarestore.org.
Be a pest & request! Don’t assume that a business, church or school will start recycling without consumer/ parishioner/student demand. If you work at a business that does not recycle, take the initiative and get one started. See “away from home” page for more resources.
Take the pledge on National Recycles Day: www.nrc-recycle.org/americarecycles.aspx
Write your representatives! Your local & state representatives always need to hear about waste reduction issues and the importanceof increasing recycling rates in Atlanta. Issues might include: recycling incentives, landfill tip fees, food waste diversion & composting, and recycling-friendly building ordinances.
Clean Green! Many common cleaning supplies are considered hazardous waste! Switch to green cleaning… free recipes at http://www.cswd.net/hazardous_waste/recipe.shtml
Make it a Green Holiday: Use reusable or recyclable gift wrap; gift consumable goods like shade-grown coffee, CSA shares, or memberships. Bring packing peanuts to UPS or other shipping store. Recycle your tree! www.KeepGeorgiaBeautiful.org or call 1 (800) CLEAN-UP