When it comes to our environment and the future health of our planet. One of the most impactful solutions is the standardization of recycling in the United States. If you look at other countries like Germany and South Korea, these countries have strict recycling practices that have been successfully implemented for many years. In Germany residents are expected to separate waste by type. For example, glass, metal, paper, and biodegradables are sorted into different bins.

The Subject of recycling in the united states interest me because as a Portlander, I am strongly influenced by many health and environmentally conscious people. Due to global warming and the ever changing need of the population, I feel recycling is one the most basic ways to minimize the effects of waste and pollutants in the environment. Currently our recycling standards are far behind those of many countries. These countries manage successful recycling programs due to the fact that they are government subsidized… Meaning, citizens are required by law to properly recycle their waste. The problem in the US is that recycling is an option, not a requirement, and it come at a cost many would not be able to afford. In Portland for example recycling can cost upwards of $30 a month. More people would be willing to incorporate recycling into their everyday lives if it was not only required by law, but costs were also covered by the government.

In week six we covered the topic: Managing Urban Waste. This is relevant to the class in that the declining state of the environment has been one of the most discussed issues in recent years. With the many negative effects caused by even minor climate changes, environmental preservation has never been more important. If we want to make a contribution to the future health of our planet, we must follow the examples of the countries currently excelling in waste management.