IKEA Giving Free Recycling Bins To 18K Households

Earth: Alright, guys, here’s a planet with all the air, food, and water you need. Please don’t make me regret this.

Humans: Of course, we wouldn’t. Here, have some smoke, cow belches, and deforestation as a sign of our gratitude.

It’s no secret that humans are the main cause of climate change.

But now we have a chance to change things, and a certain furniture store could help us out with that.

Free recycling bins

According to CNA, 18,000 households will get a free recycling bin in a joint initiative by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and IKEA Singapore.

In a news release, IKEA and NEW said this initiative aims to simplify the recycling process and encourage more regular recycling.

Recycling is a bit like exercising or going to the dentist. We know we should do it, but we’re too lazy to do so.

Well, now, there’s really no excuse.

“The recycling bin allows households to accumulate their recyclables at home, and it also serves as a visual reminder to encourage regular and correct recycling habits,” said NEA and IKEA in the release.

So, who are the lucky 18,000 recipients?

Certain residents of Built-to-Order (BTO) flats in MacPherson, Bidadari, Sembawang, and Sengkang will receive vouchers over the next few months to redeem the free recycling bins at IKEA.

From August 24, recipients can use the voucher at both IKEA outlets at Tampines and Alexandra.

Top bins

Based on feedback from six focus group discussions conducted by NEA, the bins are designed to be durable, washable, and functional. It also comes in a neutral colour which easily fits into any home.

The IKEA bins are made from 60 per cent recycled plastic. Each bin comes with a prominent blue recycling label with useful recycling tips advising recyclers to ensure recyclables are free from food and liquids and to rinse bottles and containers before recycling them.

The bins, which retail at S$9.90, are fully sponsored by IKEA.

So, why are we not recycling regularly?

A recent survey found that only 60 per cent of Singaporeans recycles.

Why is this?

Those who regularly recycle said convenience plays an important role.

Those who did not say it was because they had too few items to recycle, or that it was difficult to incorporate it into their routine.

Immediate action

This initiative by NEA and IKEA shows how imminent the dangers of climate change are.

We need to start doing our part now for the planet because it’s running out of breath and we need to give it a break.

Not I say one, is scientists say one.