New Mexico, a state located in the southwestern region of the United States, is known for its rich history, diverse cultures, and stunning natural landscapes. It is home to several Native American tribes, such as the Navajo, Pueblo, and Apache, and has a long and fascinating history that includes Spanish colonization, Wild West legends, and the atomic bomb.
One of the state’s most famous attractions is the Carlsbad Caverns, a network of underground caves that features stunning limestone formations and is home to over 400,000 bats. New Mexico is also known for its beautiful desert landscapes, including the White Sands National Park, which features miles of white gypsum sand dunes.
Additionally, New Mexico has a vibrant art scene, with many museums, galleries, and festivals celebrating the state’s unique cultural heritage. The city of Santa Fe, in particular, is renowned for its stunning Spanish colonial architecture and vibrant arts community.
Sustainability in New Mexico
New Mexico has made significant strides towards sustainability in recent years, earning recognition and praise from various organizations and publications. However, when compared to other states, it still has a long way to go in some areas.
According to the 2020 State Energy Efficiency Scorecard, New Mexico is ranked 24th in the nation for energy efficiency policies and programs, up from 36th place in 2019. This is a significant improvement, but still leaves room for growth. New Mexico has also committed to transitioning to 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045, which is a promising goal.
On the other hand, New Mexico has struggled with water conservation and management. The state is facing a severe drought, and many areas are experiencing water scarcity. In 2019, New Mexico was ranked 49th in the nation for water efficiency policies and programs by the Alliance for Water Efficiency.
Overall, New Mexico is making progress towards sustainability, but there is still much work to be done, especially in areas such as water conservation and management.
Recycling in New Mexico
Recycling has become an increasingly important issue in New Mexico in recent years. According to the New Mexico Recycling Coalition, the state’s recycling rate has steadily increased over the past decade, from 12% in 2005 to 16% in 2015. While this is still below the national average of 34%, it is a positive trend that reflects growing awareness of the importance of recycling.
One of the biggest challenges facing the recycling industry in New Mexico is the lack of infrastructure and resources. Many communities do not have curbside recycling programs, and there are few recycling facilities throughout the state. However, there are efforts underway to address these issues, including public education campaigns and the development of new recycling programs.
Despite these challenges, there are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of recycling in New Mexico. The state has a strong tradition of environmental stewardship, and there is growing support for sustainable practices among both individuals and businesses. With continued investment and innovation, New Mexico has the potential to become a leader in the field of recycling and waste reduction.
How to Recycle in New Mexico
Recycling is important for the environment and helps reduce waste in landfills. If you live in New Mexico and want to recycle, here are some steps to get started:
- Check your local recycling program: Recycling programs vary by city and county in New Mexico, so it’s important to check what is accepted in your area. You can usually find this information on your city or county’s website or by contacting your local waste management department.
- Know what can and cannot be recycled: Not all materials can be recycled, so it’s important to know what can and cannot be accepted in your local recycling program. Common items that can be recycled include paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, aluminum cans, and glass bottles.
- Prepare your recyclables: Before placing your recyclables in the bin, make sure they are clean and free of food residue or other contaminants. Rinse out plastic bottles and aluminum cans, remove any labels from glass bottles, and flatten cardboard boxes.
- Place your recyclables in the bin: Once your recyclables are prepared, place them in the recycling bin provided by your local waste management department. Make sure you do not mix in any non-recyclable materials.
- Reduce waste: In addition to recycling, there are other ways you can reduce waste in New Mexico. Consider using reusable bags, water bottles, and containers to reduce the amount of single-use items you consume.
By following these steps, you can help reduce waste and contribute to a cleaner environment in New Mexico.
Here are links to help you and your family recycle in New Mexico:
New Mexico Recycling Coalition
CLICK HERE
New Mexico Environment Department – Recycling and Composting
CLICK HERE
Environment New Mexico, The State of Recycling in New Mexico
CLICK HERE
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Rox Recycles 