When the recycling containers are full or large projects are being completed in the home, people tend to throw recyclable items in the regular trash. Avoid unnecessary waste by finding your local recycling center. Look in the phone book or on an online version under the term "recycling coordinators" to find the nearest center. The city government office can also be contacted to find this information. The Environmental Protection Agency maintains a database of recycling centers at EPA.gov. Educate friends, families and coworkers on the location of these centers and encourage them to use them.
Urban areas have come up with a great solution for people who don't have a yard or the gardening knowledge to create a flourishing harvest. Vacant and abandoned lots can be turned into beautiful oasis of local, organic produce through community gardens. Members section off a part of the garden to grow their own produce. Growing your own food helps reduce pollution and creates an activity that not only greens the area, but brings community members closer together.
Support local businesses and farmers by purchasing goods and food at family-owned organizations. Shopping locally reduces "food miles" and keeps money in the community. Purchasing items at stores that support environmental efforts and local artisans is an easy and fun way to green your community. Plus it offers the opportunity to network with like-minded individuals and exchange ideas on ways to go green in the city you live. The website Localharvest.org provides users the ability to easily search for local businesses.
Educate yourself on environmental issues and stay abreast of laws and policies that affect the environment in your community. Support candidates that have an environmental platform. Educating yourself on the local green issues in your hometown is one of the first steps to making a green difference. Once you are aware of the issues the community is facing, you can effectively communicate potential solutions to other citizens to garner support and increase awareness.
Organize a neighborhood cleanup by recruiting family, friends and co-workers. Pick a day and a location in need of some care and spend an afternoon picking up trash and cleaning up public areas. Use green cleaning supplies and make sure all trash that can be recycled is taken to your nearest recycling center. Talk to local businesses and ask the make donations to the endeavor to cover the cost of supplies. A single volunteer event can help establish a Neighborhood Green Committee that meets often to organize green event for the community.