I’m an avid ‘recyclist’ now, but have become one–I have to admit there was a time, about 20 years ago, that I didn’t stake a claim about it at all. A friend used to encourage it every chance he got, but I just didn’t know enough about climate change and the need to preserve our planet. So here’s a crash course for all of you who, like me back then, simply don’t know the urgent need.

The  earth’s ozone layer of the atmosphere is being depleted by gas emissions, some of which would not be necessary if stuff like plastic bottles and cardboard, depending on town,  were sterilized and reused. Depletion of this layer of the atmosphere exposes us to harmful rays from the sun. It will only get worse for future generations.

Today’s predominant concerns are with global warming and fossil fuels and carbon dioxide emissions, and the fact that carbon dioxide traps heat. Trees, as well as the ocean and other plants, absorb and use carbon dioxide, but there are not enough trees and plants to absorb all of what’s emitted today. Thus, the earth is warming up at an alarming rate.

Recycling paper products means fewer trees will be cut down to make paper products. Our planet needs every tree and more trees to absorb and use carbon dioxide.

Indeed, Earth Day Network proclaims the easiest way to fight climate change is by panting trees.

I needed to be educated 20 years ago, so I can relate to those who haven’t set aside time to rinse out cans and bottles or whatever preparation is required. But I really don’t see, how anyone can not get out a brown paper bag to throw paper in the bag instead of the wastebasket for the sake of our children. It takes no extra time! To toss a toilet paper roll into a bag is as easy as tossing it into a wastebasket.

My point is that recycling some items takes only a break with habit. And if you’re one who thinks climate change and the need for recycling is a bunch of hooey, does it hurt to do a little bit of extra work just in case, for the sake of children?