Resources for Waste Reduction and Recycling

There are many compelling reasons for both houses of worship and individuals to reuse, reduce and recycle…all of them informed by this transforming thought: people grow spiritually through mindful consumption.

First, recycling protects the environment. Consider that recycled glass creates 20% less air pollution and 50% less water pollution than newly manufactured glass. Or, that recycling one aluminum can saves enough electricity to light a 100-watt bulb for four hours.

Second, recycling helps fight climate change. In the face of a global challenge, what can any one of us do? Well, consider that recycling all the newsprint, cardboard, glass and metal in one home can reduce CO2 emissions by some 850 pounds per year.

Third, trash incineration is an environmental and social injustice. Not only do incinerators release dioxins, mercury and other toxins--and dioxin, even at low levels, has been demonstrated to contribute to cancer, birth defects and developmental problems--but incinerators overwhelmingly are sited in minority and poor communities.

Fourth, reusing, reducing and recycling save money. Reusing paper means buying less paper. Reducing waste means paying less for waste removal. And trash costs more to dispose of than the same volume of recyclables.

So, what can you do?

Tips for Recycling
Getting Started
How To Do a Waste Audit
Sample Waste Audit Press Release

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Upcoming Events:
 
Meeting the Sacred in Creation Retreats Offered in Hudson Valley, Pacific Northwest, Southeast in April, May, October 2007.
 
New Brunswick Environmental Health and Justice Tour, April 18, 2007.
 
Prof. Larry Rasmussen to Keynote April 23, 2007 Interfaith Environmental Conference with Drew Theological School.