November 15 is America Recycles Day. This national initiative started by Keep America Beautiful is about educating and motivating people on why they should recycle. Today, communities across the country will take action to increase and improve recycling in America. Take their #BeRecycled pledge here to commit to learning more about how to properly recycle, reduce your amount of waste, and spread the word.

When we think of recycling, plastic bottles, paper, and food containers are probably the first thing that comes to mind. But each year when we replace our old electronics with newer versions, we’re contributing to a growing environmental problem. E-waste is getting larger each year, and less than a quarter of electronics are properly recycled. Only 19 states have laws than ban electronics from regular trash, but it’s ultimately up to you to make sure your old devices are handled properly.

More Than a Phone

You can recycle your old phones for a good cause at any TCC Verizon store near you! We take old smartphone donations and use them for More Than a Phone, our program that keeps survivors of domestic violence and more connected with a smartphone and service. Learn more about More Than a Phone here. Got any old phones lying around? Donate them to a good cause!

Find a TCC Verizon store near you here.

Make the Switch

Looking for easy ways to shift to a more sustainable lifestyle? Check out these tips.

• Unplug electronics when you’re not using them
• Carry a reusable water bottle
• Switch your lightbulbs to an energy efficient alternative, like halogen incandescents and compact fluorescent lamps
• Don’t buy fast fashion
• Drive less and opt to take public transportation, bike, or walk whenever possible
• Eat and shop locally
• Invest in reusable shopping bags
• Wash your clothes on cold and line-dry when you can
• Try to eat less meat

Comment any tips you have for reducing your carbon footprint. We’d love to hear them!