Save the Earth: recycle

To the editor:

Hundreds of tons of reusable material are thrown away every day in the United States. This material could be used to make new cars, boats, bottles, etc.

In the Valley, an organization known as Valley Community for Recycling Solutions was founded in 1998 as a group for recycling in a Wal-Mart parking lot. They are now a functioning drop-off site for a wide range of recyclable material. These include cardboard, paperboard (which includes non-corrugated paper and magazines), steel and aluminum cans, office paper (envelopes, fax paper), newspapers, and #1 and #2 plastics.

Recycling has its obvious benefits to the Earth. It creates a cleaner environment while saving material. It also, however, saves money for those who chose to recycle. Dumps across Alaska charge $5 or $10 for every load, not to mention additional charges for weight or size. Recycling is much cheaper. As an example, VCRS has only a $2 suggested donation. No size limit, no weight limit.

Reducing waste affects all of us. We all have the power of changing the Earth, and it is up to everyone to do their part to change it. If we take the steps to change our habits, we can create a safer and cleaner environment for everyone.

As you consume, throw trash away, and hopefully recycle please think of the youth of Alaska. We want a pristine environment to last through our lifetime and beyond. You can treat the Earth however you want, but the future generations don’t get a choice. We inherit it however you leave it to us. For more information go to ayea.org.

The Palmer chapter of Alaska Youth for Environmental Action