Recycling with Heart: A Small Moment That Meant a Lot
The other day, I was at the local recycling drop-off center—a place I visit often, both for myself and for organizing clients—when something small but meaningful happened that reminded me why I do what I do.
Recycling might seem like a minor task, but for many people (myself included), it’s one of those quiet, intentional actions that really matter. Whether it’s about reducing landfill waste, decluttering responsibly, or just minimizing trash at home, there’s a shared sense of purpose behind doing it with care.
A Teachable Moment at the Bins
While I was there, another person pulled up and started unloading recyclables—bundled up in large plastic trash bags. Unfortunately, plastic bags aren’t accepted in our county’s bins because they can jam the sorting machines and cause expensive damage. In some areas, issues like this have led to recycling services being shut down completely.
It’s not that people don’t care—it’s that they don’t always know the proper systems or local recycling guidelines. And that’s where a little friendly education can go a long way.
As I stood there debating whether to say anything, he made a comment about how the new bin lids make it harder to drop things in. That gave me a natural opening to connect.
“I know why they did that,” I said. I explained that the new slot design encourages people to break down their cardboard boxes, making the bins more efficient and easier to empty. That small insight turned into a longer conversation.
I gently pointed out the sign explaining that plastic bags weren’t allowed, and shared a quick story about another location that had to remove its bins due to misuse. He looked surprised and said, “I didn’t know.”
I let him know I was on my way to drop off soft plastic bags for several clients at a store that accepts them, and offered to take his. He declined, saying, “I know Kroger takes them. I’ll do that. I’ll start using paper bags from now on.”
Organizing Is Bigger Than Closets
What struck me most was how open and kind he was. Even with a (unlit) cigarette in his mouth, he listened, asked questions, and wanted to do better.
That moment reminded me of one of the core truths about professional organizing: it’s not just about pretty shelves and labeled bins. It’s about helping people develop sustainable systems, form better habits, and make choices that align with their values—including how they let go of things.
Whether we’re donating, recycling, or trashing items, the goal is to be thoughtful and informed, not perfect.
Organizer’s Tip: Know Your Local Recycling Rules
If you’re doing a home purge or guiding a client through decluttering, take a few extra minutes to check your local recycling guidelines. Knowing what’s accepted (and what’s not) makes a huge difference—and it keeps the systems you build working long after the session ends.
A little effort makes our communities cleaner, greener, and yes—more organized, inside and out.
If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go to pinkyjackson.com
Photo: Jack Church @jackchurch
