Holly ChristmannCommunity Press guest columnist
In 1970, the first Earth Day was celebrated in the United States as a bipartisan congressional effort, bringing environmental concerns front and center.
Since 1970, Earth Day has grown to be celebrated in 184 countries and reaching millions of people. Although the magnitude of the day has grown, the original goal of teaching citizens how to live sustainably has remained the same. This Earth Day and every day, you can celebrate the Earth by reducing, reusing, recycling and composting.
By reducing the amount of waste created, you can save material, energy and prevent pollution and waste. You can reduce waste by buying products in bulk or with less packaging, by borrowing, renting or sharing items with others and by reusing items. Consider buying reusable bags or reusable containers or shopping at a local thrift store. When you reuse, you reduce waste and cost.
Recycling also helps to reduce waste and pollution. Using recycled materials in the manufacturing process conserves energy, saves natural resources and reduces pollution. Remember, not everything is recyclable in your curbside bin or cart. For a complete list of what can be recycled and outlets for odd items, call our recycling hotline at 513-946-7766 or visit HamiltonCountyRecycles.org.
Composting is nature's way of recycling. Backyard composting is a great way to use yard trimmings and food scraps to provide a free soil amendment. For more information on how you can start composting today, visit HamiltonCountyRecycles.org. If you choose not to backyard compost, bring yard trimmings to our free drop-offs open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at Bzak Landscaping, Kuliga Park and Rumpke Sanitary Landfill.
These are just a few ways you can live sustainably this Earth Day. Learn more about how you can improve the Earth by joining us for Sawyer Point's Earth Day celebration on Saturday, April 20, from noon to 5 p.m. Stop by to talk with us about your recycling and composting efforts.