Earth Day has passed, and many people have received a free cup of coffee from Starbucks for bringing in a reusable mug to the coffee store. However, the effort to recycle and keep the environment healthy must be a sustained effort in order for the positive effects to take place.

Recycling one can of soda or one bottle of tomato sauce may not seem like it will make a difference. However, the truth is that every aluminum can and every glass bottle matters in the global fight to save the environment.

Recycling is more than just a slogan - "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle." It is more of a philosophy and a way of life that represents care and empathy for future generations.

The benefits of recycling include environmental protection, energy reduction as well as the saving of natural resources.

If one is concerned about animals and endangered species, one should think about the forests and endangered animals' habitats that are destroyed due to the need for limited resources. How can one help animals besides donating money to wildlife conservation and spreading the word? One can start by recycling a bottle of water or a glass of juice.

If one is concerned about job security or the state of the U.S. economy, one should think about the 36 new jobs that are created for every 10,000 tons of waste that is recycled, according to Pace Butler. How can one help jobs besides studying economics and lobbying through political organizations? One can start by recycling paper and taking an extra three seconds to recycle that plastic bag.

Recycling is more than just a motto or slogan. Think of recycling as a world-changing philosophy, that saves jobs today, animals tomorrow and future generations for years to come.