If there was ever a time to cultivate the attitude of gratitude, it’s now. That may seem counterintuitive with so many imposed pandemic changes, but the returns of appreciation are worth the effort.
Genuine smiles and thank-yous go a long way, especially when directed at those who are working harder than ever to continue offering essential services we may previously not have thought much about at all. Sometimes it’s only when certain service levels shift that we truly appreciate them for what they were.
Maybe it’s a case of absence making the heart grow fonder here.
While some of us are finding we have more time than usual on our hands to pursue inspiration and finish shelved projects, others are working harder than ever. This is true of those in the essential service industry of waste management, which includes anyone involved in receiving, transporting, sorting, or processing recyclables, compost and garbage.
Pre-pandemic, we already had a lot to be grateful for compared to many across the globe. BC, for instance, hosts the largest number of recycling programs in North America. Add to that the ease for city residents of dropping recycling and garbage at their curb, or for all residents having staff available to help us sort at depots.
We find ourselves in a unique position of privilege, although we can and are always aiming for improved waste reduction and diversion from landfills.
The waste industry is adapting to keep residents safe, and with minimal service changes where possible. As they make these extra efforts, we can show our appreciation by doing simple things like putting our garbage out on time, limiting the weight of the garbage at the curbside (26 pounds maximum), rinsing and sorting our recyclables before heading to a recycling depot, and only heading there when storage is no longer available at home.
We can also show our thankfulness by cultivating an attitude of patience when waiting in lines to drop off materials, wherever that may be.
Another reason to be grateful is that we are being gifted with a perspective of how much waste we produce because we’re faced with having to store it longer. Many are becoming more interested than ever in the zero-waste movement and are getting into composting at home, upcycling projects and buying in bulk.
It’s true that we have had to make some adjustments during this unusual time, and it’s important to stay informed and ready for advocacy where needed. Staying informed and counting our blessings seems a good balance at this time.
Let’s Talk Trash is qathet Regional District’s waste-reduction education program.
