Recycling is mandatory

Recycling is an important daily activity that will curb the effects of climate change and the ecological footprint humans make on the planet.

This is a known fact; however, knowing does not always translate into doing. Natural resources are not infinite, yet people regularly behave in ways that suggest otherwise.

Recycling efforts should be universal. There is no excuse for not making the effort. Not only is it one of the most basic forms of conservation that exists, but the Canadian government continues to make it easier to recycle waste every year.

Even at Laurier, recycling is remarkably easy. There are clearly-labeled recycling bins across campus, a composting system in the dining hall and a new eco-container initiative that allows students to purchase a reusable container (which is even washed by the university) for only $5.

However, the real feelings people have about recycling has been exposed by recent educational calendar distributed by the City of Toronto – only 15 per cent of the waste produced in condos and apartments is actually recycled. The anonymity of high-rise living affords the inhabitants the social repercussions that not recycling may force upon other types of residences, such as houses, without the standard blue bin.

Regardless of the type of residence, not recycling is inexcusable. Laziness is no more acceptable than inaction as a result of anonymity.

The fact is, as university students, we are responsible for future generations; by not recycling we are contributing to the current environmental situation.

Recycling is socially responsible. We all have a moral obligation to the planet.