How
to Waste Less
The following tips were taken from the United States Environmental
Protection Agency's "Consumer Handbook for Reducing Solid Waste":
Reuse
Source reduction, often called waste prevention, means consuming less and throwing away less. Because source reduction actually prevents the generation of waste in the first place, it is the most preferable method of waste management and goes a long way toward protecting the environment. Less waste also means less land put aside for burying waste in landfills.
Tip 3: Consider Reusable Products
- Consider using sturdy and washable utensils and tableware at home,
for picnics, outdoor parties, and potlucks;
- Use washable and reusable cloth napkins, sponges, and dishcloths around
the house;
- Purchase items that are in refillable containers (e.g. bottles and jugs
for beverages and detergents);
- Whenever possible, use rechargeable batteries;
- When using single-use items, take only what is needed (e.g. take only one napkin or ketchup packet if more are not needed);
Tip 4: Maintain and Repair Durable Products
- Research large purchases (e.g. stoves, televisions, cars) in order
to determine which products offer the best energy efficiency, durability,
longevity, and repairability;
- Maintain and repair appliances and equipment;
- Purchase high quality, long-lasting tires for vehicles and bicycles; to extend tire life, check the tire pressure once a month and rotate tires routinely;
- Mend clothes instead of throwing them away; repair worn shoes, boots, handbags, and briefcases wherever possible;
Tip 5: Reuse Bags, Containers, and Other Items
- Bring your own canvas shopping bag or reuse grocery bags from previous purchases; many stores are happy to offer discounts;
- Bring a reusable cup or mug that can be washed and therefore, reused again and again;
- Pack lunches in a reusable bag with a cloth napkin and reusable drink container;
- Reuse paper and plastic bags and twist ties; if only one or two items are being purchased, consider not taking a bag;
- Reuse scrap paper and envelopes; make double-sided copies of reports and office memos;
- Save and reuse gift boxes, ribbons, and larger pieces of wrapping and tissue paper;
- Save packaging, colored paper, egg cartons, and other items for reuse or for arts and crafts projects;
- Reuse food packaging (e.g. margarine tubs, coffee cans, water bottles) for storage or craft projects;
- Find other uses or homes for old draperies, bedding, clothing, towels, and cotton diapers; cut up what's left for use as patchwork, rags, doll clothes, rag rugs, or other projects;
- Reuse newspaper, boxes, packaging "peanuts" and bubble wrap to transport or ship packages;
Tip 6: Borrow, Rent or Share Items Used Infrequently
Seldom used items often collect dust, rust, and take up valuable storage space. Borrowing, renting, or sharing such items saves money and natural resources.
- Rent or borrow such items that are used infrequently:
Power tools
Boats
Formal wear
Party decorations and supplies, such as tables, chairs, centerpieces,
linens, dishes, and silverware
Audiovisual equipment
Ladders, chain saws, buffers, rug cleaners, and garden tillers
- Share newspapers and magazines with others or donate them to community groups and nonprofit organizations.
Tip 7: Sell or Donate Goods Instead of Thowing Them Out
- Donate or sell items to thrift stores or other organizations in need;
- Sell secondhand items at fairs, bazaars, swap meets, and garage sales;
- Give used clothing to family members, neighboring families, or the needy.