Written by Mark Millard
|
The 3 Rs of reduce, reuse and recycle are a handy summary of what we can do to reduce the level of resources we take from the environment and the amount of trash we put into it.
REDUCE. Consuming less and creating less waste in the first place is particuarly effective, eg:
- Conserving energy and water - turning things off, using more efficient products & services
- Getting more from the same or less - choosing more durable items and maximising their lifespan
- Cutting down on packaging - especially packaging or products that are harmful to the environment or slow to biodegrade
REUSE. Slows down consumption and waste production, eg:
- Putting old things to new uses - using your imagination and resourcefulness
- Selling or giving away what you don't use - online networks like Freecycle and the Furniture Reuse Network can help find new homes for old stuff
- Donating to charity - cuts the waste and contributes to a good cause
RECYCLE. Turns waste into something more valuable, eg:
- By design - buy products that have been or are designed to be recycled
- Reprocess - return products & packaging to the recycling chain
- Compost - recycle things yourself
Reduce Reuse Recycle Ads
|