A selfish person's guide to recycling

You might be thinking, "Recycling? Why does it even matter to me?". A lot of scary statistics get thrown around but it can still feel like it not actually affecting your life, positively or negatively. Well, hold onto your reusable coffee cups because recycling is not just about saving the planet; it's also about making our lives better in a bunch of ways. So, if you're new to this or have previously recycled back home, let's walk through what the benefits are for you.

How to become a recycling pro on campus

First of all, you can read the full breakdown of how recycling works at Bath, but it basically boils down to:

• Bin there, done that: You'll find recycling bins all around campus. They're like treasure chests for your recyclables. Simply sort your waste into recyclables and non-recyclables - easy peasy.
• Reduce, reuse, recycle: Try to reduce your use of single-use stuff, reuse things whenever possible, and recycle when you can't avoid disposables.
  
• Spread the green vibes: Encourage the people around you to do the same. Even if it's just a small step in the right direction (such as putting stuff in the right bins), if everyone on campus is doing it then it will make a difference.
  

How recycling will improve your life

• Money saver: Let's face it, student life can be expensive. By recycling, you can cut down on waste, which means buying fewer disposable items like water bottles and takeout containers.
• Cleaner space: Recycling encourages you to declutter and organize your living space. Having dedicated bins for recyclables helps you manage waste effectively, making your accommodation cleaner and generally nicer to live in, speaking of which...
  
• Stress reduction: A cleaner and more organised environment can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. When you recycle, you reduce clutter and create a more peaceful and stress-free living space, allowing you to focus better on your studies.
  
• CV booster: Many companies value sustainability, responsibility and people who actively commit to positive impact. Involvement in recycling initiatives or environmental clubs on campus can be a valuable addition to your CV if you want to get really into sustainability.
  
• Knowledge and skills: Recycling provides opportunities to learn about waste management, sustainable practices, and environmental issues. These skills and knowledge can be valuable in both your personal and professional life.
  
• Guilt-free living: Knowing that you're doing your part to reduce waste and protect the environment can provide a sense of accomplishment and fulfilment. It's a small step toward living a more purposeful and responsible life. Trust us, it feels good to recycle.
  

At the University of Bath, we're all about sustainability. Recycling is a fantastic way for you to show some love for planet Earth, but it's also a fantastic way to improve your own quality of life. Give it a go!