Lance ThooIf you’re reading this, congrats! You’re one step closer to becoming a recycling superhero. Give yourself a pat on the back for playing your part to save Mother Earth.
Recycling is a noble goal, but sadly not everything can be recycled. Many places lack the infrastructure for it.
But fret not, the Neue team has prepared a simple guide on how you can get started in Brunei Darussalam.
Q: Where can I find a recycling centre?
You can drop off your recyclable items to a recycling centre such as The Green Depot @greendepotbn, which is located at No 1, Simpang 24-29, Jalan Panglima in Kuala Belait.
View this post on Instagram
However, before you do so, you will have to first have to register for a “recover account” before dropping off your items. Click here to register.
As of January 5, 2021, the rates for recyclable materials are as follows:
- Paper = $0.01 per kg (for example, 124 kg X $0.01 = $1.24)
- Metal = $0.02 per kg
- Aluminium = $0.50 per kg
- E-waste = Free of charge
There is no minimum weight requirement when you are dropping off recyclable items here.
Alternatively, you may click here to learn more about other recycling companies registered under the Department of Environment, Parks & Recreation, Ministry of Development.
Q: But what about plastic bottles?
View this post on Instagram
Due to the current COVID-19 situation, various aspects of the recycling process have been affected globally. As a result of this, local recycling companies are currently NOT accepting plastic bottles.
For now, how about repurposing your plastic bottles instead of dumping them in the trash, which would eventually end up on our landfills. For instance, you could make your very own egg yolk separator or plastic trash can.
Click here for more ideas on how to reuse your plastic bottles.
Q: What steps can I take when shopping?
According to a survey conducted by the Department of Environment, Parks & Recreation back in 2005, the total amount of solid waste generated per year was 189,000 tonnes! This means that every individual generates about 1.4kg of solid waste per day, which is one of the highest in the region. From the total amount of solid waste generated, 16% is made up of plastic waste (mostly plastic bags).
There is an easy solution to this … just ditch plastic bags entirely. Reusable shopping bags are so much more durable and allow your groceries to be bagged faster due to the larger size that holds shape!
Q: How can I use less single-use plastics?
Start small. Say no to plastic containers and single-use plastic utensils (forks, spoons, etc). You could also bring along a reusable container or use your own metal straws and utensils whenever you are eating out.
Instead of getting your food in takeaway boxes, consider bringing your own reusable Tupperware or prepare your own lunch box.
Check out our video on bringing your own lunch!
Q: Why should I recycle?
Because you want to be a good citizen of the world? And because it’s the right thing to do?!
At the end of the day, recycling starts with YOU. Whatever you do, do not give up! Just remember that every little step you take will have a positive impact. Small changes can make a big difference in the long run!
Share your story
Do you have any tips on recycling? Be sure to drop a comment below or share this story to encourage more people in our society to go green.