Categories: Lifestyle

An Open Letter to the Non-Recycler: in GIFs

Dear Non-Recycler,

This morning I was in a fabulous mood. Nothing extraordinary happened, minus the fact I was able to do some cleaning and throw the ball around with my cat for a few minutes before work.

Then, I saw it.

A plastic bag. In. The. Trashcan.

Are you trying to give me an ulcer in the 5 months before I turn 30? You’re correct to realize that the plastic bags don’t belong in the recycle bin, but do you see all the plastic bag recycling bins at grocery stores in the tri-state area?

Then I see the plastic soda bottles, aluminum cans, empty Lean Cuisines and the worst: PLASTIC water bottles. In. The. Trash.

Do you refuse to believe that climate change exists like Michele Bachman? Do you want to leave even more garbage for your kids, nephews or friend’s children?

Wake up. It’s 2013, and everything should be: Reduced, reused and recycled. In that order. Stop buying cheap prepared meals, soda and more that goes straight in the trash. You’ll feel better, be healthier and smile more.

Next time, please. I beg you. Throw your plastics, aluminum & glass into the recycle bin. It’s 2 feet away from the trash can. It’s single stream, so you don’t have to decide of which item goes where.

And if you buy a Klean Kanteen or SIGG, I’ll be ecstatic. And even bring you a cupcake.

Love,

Julie

The heartbroken environmentalist turned optimist.

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Recent Posts

Eco-Explainer: What is a rain garden?

Let's dig into this form of GSI, and three perennial flowers that are also good…

9 hours ago

PA exits RGGI, 10-cent bag fees, Birds supporting Birds & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Pa. budget deal officially kills key greenhouse gas…

6 days ago

Exact Solar Celebrates 20 Years: Reflecting on the journey

From a family business to over 2,500 projects across the region, Exact Solar keeps community,…

1 week ago

Climate Change is overwhelming Philly’s sewers. Here’s what GSI can do for stormwater.

Why heavier rain means more sewage in Philly’s rivers As climate change brings more frequent…

1 week ago

Advocates want the district’s long-term facilities plan to prioritize climate preparedness.

The Philadelphia school system is undergoing a facilities planning process and will be announcing school…

2 weeks ago

New SBN leadership, new round of city cleanups, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Sustainable Business Network welcomes new executive director. Zoraida…

2 weeks ago