From the 30-Day Home Organization Plan Chapter...

Day 1
Today’s Goal – Recycling,
Filing & Sorting Systems

Greening Tasks

• Set up a sturdy recycling box or bin in a convenient location, such as next to the regular trash can, in the garage, in a laundry room, or under the kitchen sink.
  

• Recyclables include items such as glass, plastic, newspaper, magazines, cardboard, cereal-type boxes, office paper, batteries, light bulbs, and electronics.

• For curbside recycling, check your local waste management company that collects trash in your area.  Each recycler will specify which items it can recycle.  If you don’t have curbside recycling, here’s how to find a recycling center in your area: http://earth911.com/
  

• For light bulbs and batteries, take them to Ikea or check if your local recycling center accepts them: http://earth911.com.  Consider making a special recycling bin or hanging bag to gently hold these items until they are recycled.

• Get paid to recycle electronics by checking out these sites: http://www.gazelle.com/, http://buymytronics.com/, http://www.greenphone.com
  
  

• As you begin clearing clutter in your space, create organized zones labeled:  Donate, Recycle, Give to Friends, Sell, Toss, and Reuse.

Organizing Tasks

• Sort the mail and put read newspapers and magazines in your recycling bin.

• Clear out your purse, backpack, wallet, and briefcase.

• Make a special space for receiving the mail, papers, and receipts.

• File papers and receipts with a filing system. Label folders or boxes as needed, by content or date.