Draconian Recycling

The year is 2013 and recycling is still a problem. People are simply not doing it. The main reason why people aren’t recycling is due to inconvenience. For some people it is just too much work to separate their garbage into recyclables. For others it is a bit more complicated than that. Some towns do not have a curbside recycling program. Instead of their community coming to pick their bin up, they must do it themselves. Another reason why people aren’t recycling is simply because they are just not educated in the matter. 

According to treehugger.com, “Among the anti-recyclers, one in six said they don't recycle because it wasn't available in their area; 12 percent, on the other hand, said it takes too much effort, plus it costs more to recycle in their neighborhoods. Another 11 percent said recycling was, well, rubbish and doesn't make a difference; 6 percent said they were too busy and 5 percent found recycling too difficult.” These numbers are astonishing. Recycling absolutely does make a difference. Everyday in Bridgewater State University I witness people throwing away plastic bottles into the trash bins. What’s even worse is that BSU has numerous recycling stations all over campus. I was talking to a friend of mine and she mentioned that her family does not recycle at all. Our town has a curbside recycling program. The only effort that is necessary is a simple separation and assortment of recyclables. When we don’t recycle, more likely than not, the plastic and recyclable materials end up in a mountainous landfills to remain forever. 

I suggest that recycling be made a law. In order to enforce this law fines and punishments would be installed. The fines would be hefty and if the fines went unpaid, jail time would be the penalty. It may seem a bit Draconian, but when it comes to the environment, this is a very serious matter. As another part of the law and in order to aid the people in this “tedious” deed, towns and cities alike must make recycling a free service. This should eliminate the pitiful excuse of inconvenience.

There are bountiful benefits to recycling. For one it is good for the economy. According to epa.gov it creates more jobs, economic development, and tax revenue. It is also good for the environment. Epa.gov says that recycling causes more energy security, less greenhouse gas emissions, less pressure on landfills and more natural resources for future generations. 

If we are to truly conserve our earth for future generations, recycling must be made a priority. It is only fair that we do this small and simple task to ensure a clean environment for everyone.