Missouri is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It is known for a variety of things, including its diverse geography, vibrant history, and unique culture. One of the most prominent features of Missouri is the Mississippi River, which runs along its eastern border. The state is also home to the Ozark Mountains, which offer stunning scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities.
In terms of history, Missouri played an important role in the westward expansion of the United States. The city of St. Louis, located on the Mississippi River, was a major hub for trade and commerce during the 19th century. Missouri was also the site of several pivotal Civil War battles, including the Battle of Wilson’s Creek and the Battle of Westport.
Today, Missouri is known for its friendly people, delicious barbecue, and thriving arts scene. The state is home to several world-class museums, including the Missouri History Museum and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Additionally, Missouri is a major producer of agricultural products, such as corn, soybeans, and livestock.
Sustainability in Missouri
Missouri is known for its abundance of natural resources such as forests, waterways, and mineral deposits. However, when it comes to sustainability, the state falls behind compared to other states. According to a report by WalletHub, Missouri ranks 43rd out of 50 states in terms of environmental sustainability. This ranking is based on factors such as air and water quality, energy consumption, and waste management.
One of the main areas where Missouri struggles with sustainability is in energy consumption. The state relies heavily on coal for its energy needs, which is a non-renewable resource and a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, Missouri does not have a statewide renewable energy standard, which means that there are no requirements for utilities to generate a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources.
However, there are some efforts being made in Missouri to improve sustainability. For example, the city of St. Louis has a sustainability plan that includes goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing renewable energy use. In addition, there are numerous organizations and businesses in the state that are working to promote sustainability through education, advocacy, and environmental initiatives.
Overall, while Missouri may not be a leader in sustainability, there are efforts being made to improve the state’s environmental impact.
Recycling in Missouri
Missouri has made significant progress in recycling over the past decade. According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, the recycling rate in Missouri has increased from 10% in 2005 to 42% in 2019.
In 2019, Missouri recycled more than 3 million tons of materials, including paper, cardboard, plastic, glass, and metal. The state’s recycling efforts saved more than 12 million cubic yards of landfill space and avoided the release of more than 7 million metric tons of greenhouse gases.
However, there is still room for improvement as Missouri’s recycling rate is still below the national average of 35%. Efforts are being made to improve recycling in the state, including education and outreach programs to increase public awareness and participation, as well as initiatives to expand recycling infrastructure and markets for recycled materials.
How to Recycle in Missouri
Recycling is an important practice that can help reduce the amount of waste we produce and preserve the environment for future generations. Here are some simple steps you can follow to recycle effectively:
- Know what can be recycled: It is important to know what materials can be recycled in your area. Commonly recycled items include paper, cardboard, glass, metal, and plastic.
- Separate recyclables: Keep your recyclables separate from your trash. You can use separate bins or bags to make this easier.
- Clean and prepare recyclables: Make sure to clean and prepare your recyclables before placing them in the recycling bin. For example, remove any food residue from plastic containers.
- Check local recycling guidelines: Recycling guidelines can vary by location, so it’s important to check your local guidelines to ensure you are recycling correctly.
- Educate others: Encourage others to recycle by educating them on the benefits of recycling and how to do it properly.
By following these simple steps, you can do your part to help protect the environment and reduce waste.
Here are links to help you and your family recycle in Missouri:
Recycling – Missouri Department of Natural Resources
CLICK HERE
Missouri Recycling Association
CLICK HERE
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