If you have ever been overwhelmed at the thought of sorting through a hauntingly messy pile of recycling, brain scientists would not be the least bit surprised.
Signs, advertisements and social media flood our senses and ask us to pay attention. But thinking requires effort, and depending on what type of day you are having, your brain may have already exhausted its ability to learn anything new, perhaps because it is busy dreaming up costume ideas.
We have a limited amount of conscious thought in a given day, after that we are pretty much zombies who default to social norms and societal systems.
Because brains have such a short battery life, we save energy by ignoring, filtering and following general rules. Anything that requires attention drains our brains. The silver lining is that tired brains crave simplicity and systems. We can take advantage of this.
Brain-dead waste reduction tips:
1. Minimize. Fewer things means fewer decisions and the bonus of allowing others to receive treasures at a discount. Donate or give away things not used in the past year or two. You can also sell some items, but beware of the brain juices those activities suck up.
2. Download the ReCollect app on your phone so you never have to remember collection day again. You will receive garbage and recycling day reminders through email, text or a phone call.
3. Create a recycling system in your home that matches the system you use (curbside, depots or both). Spend time orienting all the goblins in the house how to use and maintain the system to create less work and mess. If tight on space, make the system vertical. Suggested bins can include paper and cardboard, refundables, containers (paper, plastic and metal), glass containers and another for other recyclables available for drop-off at most depots (cork, pens, highlighters, felts, cellphones, household batteries, ziplock bags and garbage bags).
4. Set up a compost system. Use a small-lidded container to collect kitchen scraps. Have another lidded container in the freezer for waste like fish, meat and dairy gone bad. Take full containers and yard waste to your backyard composter or Town Centre Recycling Depot on the same day every week.
Do not let your recycling system trick you this ghostly season. Treat it to a simplified and organized overhaul.
Let’s Talk Trash is Powell River Regional District’s waste-management education program.
