Global Recycling Day is another great reminder of things we can do to help save the planet. It's also a conversation starter to talk to our kids about the issue. Here's what we can do to help...
The statistics on global waste are just plain scary. The future of the planet, our children and our future grandchildren will inherit depends on the action we take now. An estimated eight million tonnes of plastic ends up in our oceans every year, and single-use plastic is one of the biggest killers of ocean animals universally. As it stands, 40% of the ocean’s surface is now covered in debris, and by the year 2050, there could be more plastic than fish in the ocean.* Terrifying facts for everyone, especially those of us with kids. Luckily, there are things all of us can do to make a difference – right now. Here’s how you can help this Global Recycling Day in Singapore…
How you can do your bit (with the kids!) this Global Recycling Day in Singapore
1. Reduce waste whenever possible
There are plenty of easy ways you can reduce waste by adopting a sustainable lifestyle. Going to the supermarket? Be prepared with your own reusable shopping bags, including smaller ones for loose fruits and veggies (avoid pre-packaging when possible!) Get the kids involved by ditching the plastic sandwich bags in their lunchboxes.
Need new clothes? Arrange a clothes swap with friends to refresh your wardrobe, and when you do buy new items, go for sustainably made and high quality. Avoid purchasing fast fashion that isn’t likely to last beyond the first wash and will end up being discarded quickly. We love sustainable fashion champions Zerrin for a collection of the best in Singapore.
For baby and kids fashion, go pre-loved whenever possible; how many gorgeous outfits has your baby only worn once or twice (or maybe not even at all before she outgrew them). Often you can find gently used items at much cheaper prices. Businesses like Retykle are fab for buying and selling high-quality pre-owned kids’ fashion.
2. Reuse and Upcycle
Before you throw anything away, consider if it could be upcycled. A fresh coat of paint on an old table might save you spending your dollars on a new one while giving your home a chic new look. Encourage your kids to upcycle old items to breathe new life into them and help avoid adding to landfills. Got some leftover boxes from grocery deliveries? Paint them, cut out doors and windows, make a cubby house, a car, a space rocket, a pirate ship – anything they like with the use of a little imagination. Check out more crafty upcycling ideas to keep the little ones entertained for hours!
3. Donate to those less fortunate, and teach our kids valuable lessons
You could also donate your gently used unwanted items to charities in Singapore. Everything from clothing, toys, furniture, appliances, baby items and more can be shared with those who need them. It’s a great idea to bring the kids along when you take the items to the charity, and use the opportunity to open discussions around helping others and appreciating what we have.
4. Recycle the right way
If the whole process of recycling household items like containers and paper products has you a little confused (what exactly goes in what bin? Do I need to clean it first?) then you’re not alone! Have a read of our comprehensive guide to recycling in Singapore, and get comfortable with what you have to do to ensure your recycling efforts aren’t wasted.
Recycling e-waste, such as batteries, old phones, and other appliances, is another story altogether. Check out where to dispose of e-waste in Singapore, or if the items are still in good condition, consider trading them in for cash.
Let’s all take a moment this Global Recycling Day to show some love for mother Earth and talk to our kids about building a sustainable future!
*Source: earth.org
