Notes from an Environmental Student
March 27, 2024
Writer: Sabrina Sugg
Editor: Chava Makman
As an Environmental Science major, I often find myself answering questions from my roommates regarding what can or cannot be recycled, or whether we should throw away old batteries. Yet, more often than not, I lack confidence in providing them with definitive answers. It's a somewhat unsettling feeling—sustainability is supposed to be my expertise, yet I sometimes fall short. Therefore, this article is dedicated to delving into some of those questions that have left me stumped.
What can be recycled in Ann Arbor, MI?
*Other cities may have different policies—refer to the government website for your city's guidelines!
Paper and flattened cardboard
Metal cans
Glass bottles and jars, remove the tops
Plastic bottles, containers, and tubs, screw on the caps
Milk and juice cartons
Pizza boxes that are free of grease and food waste
Pizza boxes can always be composted, which is an option for some neighborhoods in Ann Arbor
#1, 2, and 5 plastics (the number found within the triangle of arrows on plastics)
Why do recyclables NEED to be cleaned beforehand?
Residue and contamination lower the value of recyclable materials, making it less likely for them to be used in the production of new products!
What are you supposed to do with batteries?
Most types of batteries can be taken to the Washtenaw County’s Home Toxics Center, located at 705 N Zeeb Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48103. Although most single-use household batteries can be thrown away in the trash, they can still be harmful to the environment, so it is best to dispose of batteries somewhere that will break down and recycle them. For more information on how to dispose of other materials please visit this LINK.
Sustainable habits that you can start implementing RIGHT NOW:
Composting — especially in the spring and summer when the weather is nice, get into the habit of taking food scraps and waste outside to a compost bin.
In Ann Arbor, you can get a curbside compost bin and are available for use in over 150 University of Michigan buildings.
If you cannot get a bin and are willing to put in a little extra time, see these steps on how to start a compost by yourself here.
Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables from local farmers markets.
Sustainably-sourced cleaning, dishwasher, and laundry supplies — for many of these, you can get subscriptions so that the supplies show up at your doorstep every few months!
Visit the BYOC Co. on 225 E Liberty St. #215, Ann Arbor, where you can refill containers with eco-friendly cleaning and care products.
This compilation of sustainable habits and information would be incomplete without acknowledging the anxiety that frequently accompanies the topic of climate change. It's crucial to recognize that climate anxiety is a legitimate emotion fueled by the observable changes in our environment. As these changes become more noticeable with each passing day, It has become important that we urge leaders to implement policies that will lessen our carbon emissions.
Many climate goals are referenced to the years 2030 and 2050, which are rapidly approaching. If we allow these milestone years to come and go without significant changes, the consequences for our planet may be irreversible.
When feelings of climate anxiety arise, it's important to step back and channel that energy into action. This could involve writing an email to a prominent political figure advocating for change or researching sustainable practices that haven't been implemented yet. While climate anxiety may be unavoidable given the real danger we face, we can counteract it through sustainable actions and advocacy.
