Here are some easy ways you can help others learn the importance of recycling.

Can you really make a difference? It’s a question we all ask ourselves at one time or another.

Well, one thing you can do is encourage others to make better, more eco-friendly choices.

The Urban Dictionary defines Circle Of Influence as people you know whom you may receive assistance from or give assistance too. Friends, family, co-workers, groups or organizations you lead, persons or groups whom you have offered assistance/knowledge to.

The more people you get to know, the larger your circle of influence becomes. And the more you can help to affect real change by having a positive influence on others. See, it’s just like the Circle Of Life. And who doesn’t like a Disney movie?

So why not use your circle of influence and encourage those you know to reduce, recycle and reuse. It’s the right thing to do.

Some Suggestions:

Set A Good Example

Let others see you recycling. Be ready to answer questions about what you’re doing and why. But be positive about your answers. Keep it simple and relevant. “I recycle because ...” ( Your Words Here. What, did you think, I was going to answer the question for you?) Or you might try, “I think recycling is a good idea because...“ (You fill in the blank. See, it’s just like a pop quiz.) Or my very own favorite, which draws them in every time...“My trash bill is so much lower since I started recycling.” There, I gave you one.

Say whatever is right/true for you. Be honest - but remember that nothing is a quicker turn off than hearing a 30 minute diatribe on how evil corporations, the government or the neighbors are. Getting newbies into recycling is just like feeding a baby squirrel...you have to get them to trust you first.

Organize A Recycling Event In Your Community

People love a get-together, especially when it’s fun, educational and has food. An event like this that centers on the importance of recycling can encourage more people to begin separating their recyclables from regular trash. And a sense of common purpose may keep them recycling.

Talk To Your Kid’s School Class

It’s important to start good habits at an early age. So, the next time your child has a bring-your-parent-to-school day, take the opportunity to talk about the positive effects of recycling. Helping your child’s school to set up a recycling program (if they don’t already have one) is another great idea. Not only are you helping reduce the carbon footprint, but you’re showing your child advocacy in action. That’s always a good thing.

Start A Recycling Program At Your Work

It’s pretty easy to call the local sanitation department and ask for recycle bins. Get as many different kinds as you can, such as, cardboard, plastic, paper, aluminum, and newsprint, and set them up in areas around the office. If you already have an office recycling program in place, why not call the local Bureau of Waste Prevention and invite someone to talk to your organization about why recycling is important.

Ask Your City Council To Start A Cash Program For Recyclables

Money talks. Businesses who benefit financially from recycling may make it a higher priority. Many municipalities, such as San Francisco, now offer cash to business who recycle on a regular basis. This is a great way to reduce the amount of trash going to the landfill, and that increases the amount of money not spent to haul it away. Business  increases profits, which makes them happy. At the same time, the community spends less money on the landfill. That means more money the community has to spend on programs it wants to support. Everybody wins.

Read More About Ways To Encourage Recycling at eHow.