In keeping with these year’s green theme, it’s all about reducing, reusing and recycling for Richland Opportunities Inc. at the Health Fair.

Employees of ROI want to continue their mission to raise awareness of the recycling opportunities (what and where) in Richland County. “We want to engage people to discuss what can be recycled in the community, what can’t be, answer any questions about why things aren’t being recycled, where they’re going if they are and what the progress is on adding more materials,” Ellen Forde, VISTA and recycling coordinator, said.

There are a lot of benefits to reducing, reusing and recycling. The greatest benefit is community health. “If you have a strong recycling program, you’re going to have a healthier community. You’re not going to be putting as much material into your landfill so you’re going to be practicing environmental stewardship.” Additionally, recycling materials improves health because there’s less litter.

Forde added there is also psychological benefits to practicing recycling. Knowing that one is doing something good for the environment improves overall thoughts. “You feel good about yourself and the action that you’re doing,” she said.

During the health fair, patrons may stop by the ROI booth to participate in an interactive activity. ROI hopes to engage people as much as possible in order to send its strong message. The activity asks patrons to take various types of trash and determine which bin (of four) it goes into: reduce, reuse, recycle and regular trash.

It all goes into the hope of increasing awareness of the materials people use on a day-to-day basis and what they can do to reduce the waste stream and support the recycling program.

“It’s not always just about recycling. It’s about reducing and reusing the stuff that you already have,” Forde said.

Fliers with recycling reminders will be available, and safe plastic reusable water bottles will be given away as well.