The Green

American politicians talk a big game about weening the country from its "oil addition." While stopping the use of polluting energy sources has its moral rewards, the biggest reason for America to become energy independent is the tremendous business opportunities to be had. Without producing any new products, simply harnessing trash and waste materials around the home and the office could make a huge difference for the environment.

If the 5 cent recycling reward on bottles could be extended to a host of other products like circuit boards, electronics, used CFL lightbulbs, paper products (per pound), metal objects and anything reusable or recyclable, then America would not only produce less trash, but more money would be injected into the economy by people gaining a fiscal reward for their stewardship of the world's resources. It seems like good old prudent capitalism at work when suggesting a financial incentive for recycling.

The government should also be guaranteeing small business loans to companies that recycle or otherwise get their raw materials from recycling centers.

Waste Management [www.wm.com] is a great company in making the best use of waste. In fact, you have to pay them to dispose of your waste. Not only do they make a profit by providing this service to companies, but they also make money selling the energy and raw materials that their waste management services provide.

It is for these reasons as well as a host of equally good reasons that cleaning up businesses and residences is a great way of making a difference in the environment. Even philosophically, valuing one's waste in a society creates a sense of interconnection to the world that is often missing from many American's lives, especially in an urban environment.

As always, please comment on this article if you find anything interesting or lacking. Thanks for reading THE GREEN BLOG.