Take The Enviro Quiz!

Explanation
The correct answer is approximately 10 minutes because plastic bags are typically used for short periods of time, such as carrying groceries from the store to the car or from the car to the house. They are not designed for long-term use and are often discarded after a single use. Therefore, the average usage time for a plastic bag is around 10 minutes.

Explanation
Pizza in a cardboard box should go in the compost bin because both the pizza and the cardboard are organic materials. The pizza itself can decompose and provide nutrients for the compost, while the cardboard can also break down and contribute to the composting process. Recycling the cardboard box is not recommended because it may be contaminated with grease or food residue, which can interfere with the recycling process.

Explanation
Styrofoam is not recyclable because it is made from polystyrene, which is a type of plastic that is difficult to recycle. It is not accepted in most recycling programs because it is bulky, lightweight, and easily breaks into small pieces, making it challenging to sort and process. Styrofoam takes hundreds of years to decompose in the environment, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife. Therefore, it is important to properly dispose of Styrofoam in the regular trash rather than attempting to recycle it.

Explanation
Turning off the lights when they are not in use is an effective way to save electricity in your home. This simple action helps to reduce energy consumption and lower electricity bills. By being mindful of turning off lights in unoccupied rooms or during daylight hours, you can contribute to conserving energy and promoting sustainability.

Explanation
Compostable refers to materials that can be broken down and decomposed into organic matter by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, under the right conditions. Banana peels are compostable because they are made of organic matter and can be broken down into nutrients that enrich the soil. Shoes, blankets, and microwaves are not compostable as they are typically made of non-biodegradable materials like plastic, metal, or synthetic fibers, which do not break down easily in the environment.