Rockaway Recycling: A 7-Step Guide to Waste Reduction

Rockaway, New Jersey, is a beautiful town with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability. The township has implemented a comprehensive recycling program that makes it easy for residents to reduce their waste output.

Step 1: Know What You Can Recycle

The first step to recycling is knowing what materials are accepted. In Rockaway, the following items can be recycled:

• Paper: newspapers, magazines, junk mail, cardboard
• Plastic: bottles, jugs, tubs, lids, film
• Metal: cans, foil, aluminum
• Glass: bottles, jars

Step 2: Rinse Out Your Recyclables

Before you put your recyclables in the bin, make sure to rinse out any food or beverage residue. This will help to keep the recycling process clean and efficient.

Step 3: Flatten Your Cardboard

Cardboard boxes should be flattened before they are recycled. This will save space in the recycling bin and make it easier for the recycling truck to collect.

Step 4: Keep Your Recyclables Dry

Recyclables should be kept dry to prevent contamination. If your recyclables get wet, they may not be accepted for recycling.

Step 5: Put Your Recyclables in the Correct Bin

Rockaway has two types of recycling bins: one for commingled recyclables (paper, plastic, metal) and one for glass. Make sure to put your recyclables in the correct bin.

Step 6: Recycle Regularly

The more you recycle, the more you help to reduce waste and conserve resources. Make it a habit to recycle every week.

Step 7: Spread the Word

Tell your friends and neighbors about Rockaway's recycling program. The more people who recycle, the greater the impact will be.

Benefits of Recycling

Recycling has many benefits for both the environment and the economy.

Environmental Benefits

• Reduces waste in landfills
• Conserves natural resources
• Reduces air and water pollution
• Fights climate change

Economic Benefits

• Creates jobs
• Saves money for businesses and consumers
• Stimulates economic growth

Recycling Statistics

• The United States recycles about 35% of its waste.
• Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 3 cubic yards of landfill space.
• Recycling one ton of plastic saves 7,000 gallons of oil.
• Recycling one ton of aluminum saves 14,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity.

Motivation for Recycling

There are many reasons why people recycle. Some people are motivated by environmental concerns, while others are motivated by economic factors. Still others are motivated by a desire to make a difference in their community.

Pain Points of Recycling

Despite the many benefits of recycling, there are some pain points that can discourage people from participating. These pain points include:

• Lack of convenience
• Confusion about what can be recycled
• Contamination of recyclables

Strategies to Overcome Pain Points

There are a number of strategies that can be used to overcome the pain points of recycling. These strategies include:

• Making recycling more convenient
• Providing clear and concise information about what can be recycled
• Educating people about the importance of recycling

Conclusion

Recycling is an important way to reduce waste and conserve resources. Rockaway's recycling program makes it easy for residents to participate in this important environmental initiative. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can help to make a difference for the environment and your community.