Recycling in the smallest of abodes

Recycling is good. The National Recycling Coalition asserts that there are at least 10 good reasons to recycle.

1. Good For Our Economy
2. Creates Jobs
3. Reduces Waste
4. Good For The Environment
5. Saves Energy
6. Preserves Landfill Space
7. Prevents Global Warming
8. Reduces Water Pollution
9. Protects Wildlife
10. Creates New Demand

Once hailed as an economic drain in New York City, the city recently signed a 20-year recycling contract with one of the nation's largest recycling companies. This is all well and good, but recycling starts at home.

1. Learn. Find out what can be recycled in your neck of the woods. Earth 911 offers a convenient search tool to find local recycling programs. The programs found here are typically drop-off locations. Check your city's, county's or state's waste management website. They might offer recycling pickup.
2. Organize. Create a system to manage your recyclables. I have one of the smallest kitchens imaginable, but I created space to keep things organized (see the picture above).
   
3. Do. Stick to it. I make many fewer trips to the trash shoot, and I only need to dispose of my recyclables about once per month. It's a small price to pay for such an important idea.