Recycle, reuse, reduce is becoming a popular phrase. What do these words mean and how does one make a difference?   Recycling is defined as the “process of collecting and processing materials that would otherwise be thrown away as trash and turning them into new products,” states the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Recycling is an easy step to take in helping sustain the environment for future generations, however, one must recycle right. This means cleaning the item and disposing it in the proper container.   There are several benefits to recycling including: reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills; helping create jobs in the recycling industry; preventing pollution by reducing the need to collect new raw materials; and saving energy.   In January, Keep Texas Beautiful (KTB) and Cooperative Teamwork and Recycling Assistance (CTRA) merged together and formed a new program called Keep Texas Recycling. Additional information can be found at: https://www.ktb.org/keeptexasrecycling.   TerraCycle is a “world leader in the collection and repurposing of complex waste streams” according to their website and they offer multiple programs and services to help eliminate waste. Keep Blanco Beautiful is currently a member of the TerraCycle Cigarette Waste Recycling Program and recycles the butts from the receptacles around the city’s historic district. More information can be found at Terracycle.org.   The definition of reuse is to use a product again for the same purpose it was created for and is usually not altered. A few examples of items to reuse include a washable cup/bottle, plates, utensils, and cloth napkins. Reusable bags are great for shopping at stores and eliminate the waste from plastic bags. “Recycled water generally refers to treated domestic wastewater that is used more than once before it passes back into the water cycle,” states the Wateruse website. Water can also be reused in different ways such as irrigation and rainwater collection. Donating items is also a form of reuse and is beneficial in several ways. These include: preventing usable goods from going into landfills; helping the community and those in need; and tax benefits may be available.   Lastly, reduce is defined as making something smaller or using less which results in a smaller amount of waste. The EPA states the “most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it in the first place.”   Reduction has a lot of benefits, such as: sustaining the environment for future generation; preventing pollution; and reducing the amount of waste that will need to be recycled. There are several simple ways to reduce waste like buying products you actually need and continuing to use the item or catching a carpool to work. One should try to purchase products with minimum packaging, but are durable and buy items in bulk. Rechargeable batteries and refurbished electronics are also ways to reduce waste.   A person can reduce the amount of water used daily by simply turning off the water while brushing one’s teeth and taking shorter showers. Opt out of unwanted catalogs and other junk mail; many organizations offer online paperless services. The EPA also recommends to “maintain and repair products, like clothing, tires and appliances, so that they won’t have to be thrown out and replaced as frequently.”   Recycling, reusing, and reducing products can really help make a positive impact on the environment for future generations.