B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Green
State of Affairs in Chicago Recycling
By Contributing Editor, M.
Recycling is something we should all take advantage of, in all parts of the globe; in every city, every state.
Here are a few interesting links about how recycling is done in Chicago:
One of the biggest sources of waste in Chicago comes from construction; good thing that we have facilities to take care of some of that waste:
And then there is this:
http://www.chicagoreader.com/TheBlog/archives/2010/02/26/our-garbage-keeps-piling-up
It looks like Chicagoans produce 15.5 pounds of trash a day; which, compared to the national average (of 4.4 pounds a day, according to the EPA) is ridiculous, considering that we don't even have a stable citywide recycling program!
If you don't believe me, look here: http://www.epa.gov/region4/recycle/faqs.htm .
I think we can do better than about 3.4 times the national average, as the supposed "Green Mayor's" city.
A few things that we can do are reduce what we use; also if you have a blue cart, make sure that you are using it properly http://bit.ly/b31WEX, and if you are one of the many thousands of City residents without one...well, write to the Department of Environment and City Hall.
Do your part and make Chicago, or whatever city you call home, just a bit greener!