America Recycles Day, 15th November 2018 #BeRecycled, #BuyRecycled

America Recycles Day is a non-profit, national program, which has been run by Keep America Beautiful, since 2009. And for 2018, the message is simple; #BeRecycled, #BuyRecycled.

America Recycles Day is noted as the only nationally recognized day which promotes and celebrates recycling in the U.S., helping to raise awareness to the recycling facts that matter. Each year, millions of people attend events all across the country, where they can learn more about the huge benefits to be reaped from further development of America’s recycling programs.

Why is recycling so important?

Here in America, our current national recycling rate stands at 34.7%*. Although this figure could be a whole lot higher, it’s a great start. Our current 34.7% national recycling rate:

Saves the same amount of energy as approximately 230 million barrels of crude oil
Conserves the same amount of annual energy usage from 14 million U.S. households
Circumvents greenhouse gas emissions from the equivalent of 34 million cars
Contributes to the multi-billion dollar recycling industry, employing millions of Americans

So, we can see how the benefits of efficient recycling are a game changer, but how can you do your bit to help create an even greener, America?

Read ahead to see how this November 15th, in Keep America Beautiful’s own words, hosting your own recycling event, is as easy as 1-2-3!...

1) Draw up a blueprint:

When creating your event, volunteers are encouraged to be as creative and inventive as possible. However, it’s important not to forget about the logistics, too. Make sure you have a clear plan of your recycling event’s location, time and schedule, that way, you can really get the most out of it.

Another great idea is to host your event in an area where there’s a high volume of passing traffic. This way, the recycling message can be spread efficiently, to as many people as possible. (Shopping malls or town centers are normally a great spot, provided you have the required permission, of course!)

2) Register:

It’s hoped that volunteers will be putting a huge amount of effort into their local events, so it would be a great shame if they were missed off the official America Recycles Day tally! To avoid this, you can register now, and your event will be displayed on the official America Recycles Day interactive map.

3) Engage:

Remember, America Recycles Day is to raise awareness, and encourage people to change their recycling habits. Of course, this means it’s a super serious topic, but it should be engaging and fun, too.

Why not try and encourage local retailers to donate some prizes for those in your community who take part? This can prove to be a huge incentive to get people to attend your event, and bring some recyclable garbage along at the same time! Plus, it’s great exposure for your local retailers, a real win-win!

Prizes made available for people who bring; 50 plastic bottles, 100 plastic bags, 15 lightbulbs etc., are all great ideas to get the ball moving.

4) Promote your event:

Promotion is key. If people don’t know about your recycling event, how are they going to attend? Spread the word of your event as much as possible, whether this be through word of mouth, social media, or any other method, it’s so important to get details of your gathering out there. Utilising the #BeRecycled #BuyRecycled social media tags are a sure-fire way to make sure as many people see your promotional material as possible.

The more people that know about your gathering, the better, so encourage others to spread the word of your event, too!

Why not find out more about the important work of America Recycles Day, and get further details on how you could organize your own event!

Sources:
*https://americarecyclesday.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Tailgating_Guide2015_2018.pdf
**https://americarecyclesday.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/1_2_3-Steps_FINAL-10.24_2018.pdf