Creative Recycling

Bethany Miller

1Most people are familiar with recycling on a very fundamental level. Many individuals separate cans, glass bottles, newspapers, cardboard, plastics, and junk mail and haul it off to the recycling center or place it in a bin at the curb for pick-up. This method of recycling is a necessary and important element in protecting the environment. However, many individuals do not consider the impact that other daily activities have on conservation and the environment; there are numerous ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle that take just a bit of creativity and a little extra initiative.

2Not everything can be packed up and shipped to the recycling center, but numerous items can be given new life simply by reconsidering their function. Consider reusing the plastic bags you receive from grocery or other stores. These bags can be utilized for many different purposes, including lining trash bins or picking up waste from pets. However, it is an environmentally conscientious idea to switch to cloth bags anyway to prevent contributing more refuse to landfills. Additionally, many stores now offer discounts to shoppers who bring in their own reusable bags, which can be an ingenious way to save money and help the environment at the same time.

3Reducing consumption of natural resources is another important consideration. This can be achieved by simply turning off a light when leaving a room, taking shorter showers, turning off the water when teeth brushing, and unplugging chargers for electronic devices such as cell phones or MP3 players when they are not in use. These devices use a great deal of electricity, even when they are not being utilized; one helpful tip is to plug all chargers into one power strip, and simply flip the switch to turn off the electricity when the chargers are not being used.

4People frequently discard their clothes in the trash when they no longer fit, but in many instances, you can donate these items to charity. Also, consider donating items such as old musical instruments, toys, furniture, and eyeglasses. The same is true of old cell phones, which you can donate to people who may need a phone for emergency use and may not be able to afford it on their own. Before deciding that something is destined for the landfill, try to get creative with worn-out items. For example, place a tattered yoga mat on the backseat of your car to protect the vehicle's upholstery when you take your dog for a ride. Schools often accept donations of egg cartons, plastic milk gallons, or Popsicle sticks for arts and crafts projects, or you could do some craft projects with younger family members.

5Books and DVDs can be given new life as well. Consider registering for a trading service; many Web sites offer users the option to list books or DVDs that they have for trade in addition to books or DVDs they want to receive in return. Users can then swap their items and generally pay only shipping fees.

6These are just a few examples that go beyond ordinary recycling to help the environment. A little creativity goes a long way, and it is important to consider the impact today's actions will have on future generations.
Question
3...This can be achieved by simply turning off a light when leaving a room, taking shorter showers, turning off the water when teeth brushing, and unplugging chargers for electronic devices such as cell phones or MP3 players when they are not in use.

Which BEST describes the 2nd sentence of paragraph 3?
Responses
A It is a major detail of the paragraph.It is a major detail of the paragraph.
B It is a minor detail of the paragraph.It is a minor detail of the paragraph.
C It should be moved to paragraph 1.It should be moved to paragraph 1.
D It should be moved to paragraph 4.It should be moved to paragraph 4.

B It is a minor detail of the paragraph.