In recent years, the question of whether governments should introduce laws requiring people to recycle has been widely debated.
While
some contend that only legislation can compel people to manage their waste, I firmly disagree with that and will explain my reasons.
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To begin
with, law enforcement alone cannot effectively encourage individuals to live more sustainably, as residents may still fly-tip when sustainable infrastructure is lacking. Governments should invest in recycling infrastructure, Linking Words
such
as separate bins, regular collection services, and accessible recycling centres, which facilitate recycling processes. Linking Words
For example
, Swedish authorities promote households' garbage separation by providing deposit-refund schemes in every neighbourhood, which has helped the nation become one of most cleanest countries worldwide. Linking Words
As a result
, developing eco-friendly structures that help residents sort their household waste can have a long-lasting effect.
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Furthermore
, wide-ranging campaigns that educate individuals about the positive impacts of recycling can strongly motivate them to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. If residents are informed that thoughtless littering has negative consequences, including harming marine life and terrestrial wildlife, polluting water, and accelerating climate change, they are more likely to change their behaviour.Linking Words
For instance
, a 2023 study in the United States found that over 56% of households purchased recycling containers following a large educational campaign, demonstrating the importance of knowledge as an effective tool.
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To conclude
, Linking Words
although
enacting laws that prohibit the disposal of unsorted garbage can have some effects, I am convinced that they are not effective in the long term. Investing not only in public education but Linking Words
also
in establishing sustainable systems to support recycling is far more impactful.Linking Words