During the Second World War, resources were hard to come by and Governments ran big recycling campaigns to ensure nothing was wasted. Waste was segregated for the following uses:
- Tins and metal were recycled for use weapons, tanks and aircraft.
- Left over food provided feed for chickens, pigs and goats.
- Rubber was collected to make tires.
- Boiled bones were used to make glue for aircraft, ground up to make fertilizer or made into glycerin for explosives.
People were also encouraged to mend belongings, such as clothes, rather than buy new. Campaigns such as ‘Make Do And Mend’ and ‘Sew And Save’ gave advice on how to recycle textiles and make clothes last longer. Knitting also soared in popularity during the Second World War.
Families had to plan meals carefully so as to minimize wastage. With no fridges or freezers, perishable food had to be purchased in small quantities and meals were made with some interesting substitutes. Meat fat was commonly saved to make pastry, and the cream from milk was collected in a jar and shaken to make butter and buttermilk.
It is sad that it took people so long to recognize the importance of recycling, and also that it took such unfortunate circumstances to draw it to our attention. These days, we realize the importance of recycling to preserve the Earth’s resources, save money, reduce pollution and help combat climate change.
However, we are still falling well below targets for diverting waste from landfill sites. The reasons for recycling may be different now from what they were during the War, but we can still look to our grandparents and the older generations for tips and inspiration.
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Ware 4 Recycling Bins Ltd have been promoting cost effective recycling bins, trolleys and waste containers for over 5 years.
Tags: environment, environmental, green, green living, recycle, recycling, recycling tips, Society