The 7 R's
You've heard of the 3 R's - but there are actually more than just Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
to minimize waste:
Rethink
Refuse
Reduce
Reuse
Repair
Regift
Recycle
Rethink
The first and most important step is to rethink what you purchase and how your purchases impact the environment and your health. Become educated and take time to reflect.
Refuse
Consumerism and "convenience" at the expense of the landfill are ingrained into our culture. Refuse harmful things like single-use plastic straws, bags, cutlery and processed, packaged foods. Contemplate if what you buy is necessary. If so, are there are better, environmentally-friendly alternatives out there?
Reduce
Reduce how much/how frequently you buy. Choose items with reduced or minimal packaging. Select items that will last for years. Borrow and lend. Try to reduce your consumption.
Reuse
Reuse products and find new uses for them instead of throwing them away. Purchase reusable instead of disposable products (e.g. stainless steel water bottle vs. plastic bottled water). Reusing can even save you money by preventing the need to buy new.
Repair
Don't throw away broken appliances, devices, clothes, etc.! Try to repair them first. Most of these items end up in a landfill, and more resources are needed to make replacements for those items. Although repair can sometimes be expensive, you are helping to treat the Earth with respect.
Regift (or donate)
If you receive a gift you won't use, or find something at home unused or unopened, gift it to someone. If you have gently used items, try donating them to an organization or people in need rather than throwing them away. It'll make you feel good while helping someone who needs it!
Recycle
Recycling is the "R" you hear the most about, even though it's the least important. Less than 15% of plastic is recycled, there are many items which aren't recyclable or compostable, and the recycling process can use harmful chemicals. Recycling is better than landfill, but it's best to focus on the other R's more.
