Natchez is ahead of the recycling curve compared to many cities of similar size.

That is something about which we can take pride.

The new recycling receptacles installed downtown are visible evidence of our city and community’s commitment to recycling and improving our environment for future generations.

Having the recycling receptacles located next to trashcans downtown gives residents and visitors easy access to recycling.

Those who live in the City of Natchez have the opportunity to participate in a curbside recycling program, which celebrated its first anniversary in July 2014.

Vidalia residents have benefitted from curbside recycling since September 2013.

Adams County offers recycling to some county residents in a sort of pilot program.

Recycling is important. It takes some effort and practice to make it a habit, but it’s a habit that, when developed, will serve our community well.

Recycling reduces the amount of trash that is hauled into a landfill, which could, if recycling is embraced here, eventually lower residents’ garbage collection and disposal fees.

Getting into the habit of recycling is a gift we can give to future generations. It takes less energy to create new items from recycled materials than it does from scratch.

Using recycled materials conserves natural resources, such as water and trees.

Landfill space increasingly is in short supply.

Recycling also helps to create jobs right here in our community.

Isn’t providing a better world for our children and grandchildren worth just a little effort today?