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Q.1121: Do Casinos recycle their waste? (It is an info-commercial)
Ans. Looking At How Casinos Could Reduce Paper Waste
Casinos in Las Vegas have a big secret when it comes to recycling; they try to do so wherever they can. Casinos in Las Vegas particularly already try to be as eco-friendly as possible. With the very popular MGM Resort recycling 33.2 per cent of its rubbish in 2010 alone and only increasing since then. The corporation's newest property, CityCentre, recycles 55.2 per cent. Although the numbers are nothing significant compared to other cities in America, it seems rather surprising for casinos. Casinos have adopted images of being a place that indulges in excess but they are far more socially responsible then some people may think.
If you're heading to a casino to indulge in games like blackjack and slots some may think they aren't the most economical forms of entertainment. Yet the majority of casinos are trying to reduce their carbon footprint in the form of paper, glass and other wastes as much as possible. Casinos are becoming more aware and have been trying to do their bit for the environment. All things that can be recycled including paper, plastic, glass, aluminium, cardboard, cooking oil, and unused resources have been added to the recycling list and the Las Vegas strips try to recycle these items where they can.
Casinos in Las Vegas began recycling in the early 90's with R.C. Farm who offered to help properties including the MGM Grand, Bellagio and Mirage. The program since then has proved to be cost-effective and has continued to expand. In 2006 the year after MGM Mirage merged with Mandalay Group, the corporation created an Energy Environmental Services Division, a consolidation of expert resources and all things energy. There are five focuses which centred on energy management and natural resource conservation, green building, construction design and development, waste management and sustainable supply chain management and communication and outreach.
Casinos especially in Las Vegas have become increasingly serious about reducing their paper waste and reducing their carbon footprint. By doing so it has also raised their profile with various businesses looking to book conventions in Las Vegas. As most business conventions are held in big hotels and casinos, MGM Grand have taken to donating leftovers like pens, papers, and pads to local schools. Another casino following suit with a similar program is Caesars Entertainment in which leftover soaps and shampoos are donated to developing countries.
For casinos to reduce paper waste and be involved with being able to try and recycle most items there are steps that need to be taken. Staff members as well as guests need to be educated about reducing their carbon footprint wherever possible. If more casinos worldwide followed suit like most casinos on the Las Vegas strip it would make playing games like blackjack, slot machines, poker and other classic table games more eco-friendly. Most things are digitalised now in casinos and other industries anyway, but products that can be recycled should be reused or donated where possible.