Summer Travel and Recycling Tips
by Laura Stewart, NAPCOR Communications Director
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA) 42 million Americans traveled away from home over Memorial Day weekend in 2018. That’s a significant number, and just the beginning as millions choose to travel to a variety of destinations over the course of the summer.
No matter how you decide to enjoy your summer, many of us will be quenching our thirst and enjoying meals from containers that are made from sustainable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic. Bottles and packaging made from PET help keep food and beverages fresh, safe and mess free. However, don’t forget to do the right thing and recycle those plastic PET bottles and packages. Sounds easy – right? Perhaps not. No matter how you enjoy your summer days, nights and weekends you might be in a new city, arena or park that may or may not have easy access to recycling your PET containers.
_______________________
Fun Fact: If each of the 42 million travelers over Memorial Day weekend recycled just one PET water bottle, that would be enough to power 27,870 cylinders of propane used for outdoor barbecue grills, or the equivalent of removing annual emissions from 141 automobiles.
_______________________
Recycling on the road can be your biggest challenge as you hit the road this summer. As you choose what adventure you’re going to undertake, be sure to consider how you can do so in a sustainable way.
How can you do your part? Here are a few of our favorite tips:
Choose the Right Container
If purchasing bottled water, soda or other beverage, choose one made from PET material. How do you know if it’s PET? Look for the #1 inside the resin identification code placed on or near the bottom of the container.
Go Zero Waste for your Next Event
If you’re hosting or planning an event, consider going zero-waste, or at the very least set up a recycling “zone.” Choose packaging materials and items that can be recycled in your area, including sustainable PET.
Hotel Savvy
Research in advance to choose hotels and campgrounds that offer recycling. Staying at a hotel that doesn’t offer recycling? Contact the front desk. Most have a centralized recycling area. If not, check out our “No Bin in Site” suggestions below.
No Bin in Site
Are you out on the road and unable to find a recycling bin? Before you hit the road, tuck a few resealable plastic bags in your car to create a mess and odor free solution. Or, consider making a mobile recycling bin in your car. Use a cooler, or plastic tote that can hold emptied, free of food residue PET. Recycle properly when you arrive at your destination – or when you get home.
Leave No Trace
Hiking or backpacking? To ensure the pristine beauty of the wilderness you’re enjoying, leave no trace. Plan to bring out what you bring in, and dispose of properly.
Educate
Finally, if traveling with your family and young children, it’s a great opportunity to share the importance of keeping our planet clean and litter free. Recycling PET plastic containers is key, but did you know you can also find recycled PET in common everyday products from beverage bottles to fleece jackets and even the fiber used in automobiles?
It only takes a few seconds to do the right thing and recycle your PET packaging. Whether you’re enjoying one of America’s National Parks or hitting the road to visit family, we hope you take time to consider recycling as part of the journey this summer.
For more information about PET and its many benefits, go to www.NAPCOR.com to learn more.