The next time someone hands you a Styrofoam cup full of juice, you might want to remind them that it takes a million years for that kind of cup to decay. This means that our landfills will be full of them for many centuries. Think about how much better for the environment it would be to bring along a reusable, washable plastic cup! It's up to you to help change the attitudes of people you know. They may not want to hear about the necessity of recycling. Why? Because it takes more effort to sort the trash, or put diapers or handkerchiefs in the laundry. They might rather throw all their garbage into one bag and use disposable diapers and tissues. If you are courageous enough to risk annoying your family and friends, you can make a real difference in the world. Remind people that scientists have figured out how to make bags and clothing from recycled plastic, so taking the time to put their plastic bottles in the recycling bin is worth the effort. Speak up, and help save the Earth! What is the author's purpose in writing this passage? A: to inform the audience about ways that people could help their communities B: to persuade the audience to get other people interested in recycling their trash C: to entertain the audience by sharing interesting facts about people's garbage D: to narrate a personal story about the author's adventures in recycling trash