Be Eco-Friendly—Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
WE are the earth’s greatest resource. We can find ways to reduce and better manage our stream of trash through a coordinated mix of practices that include reducing the amount of waste, reusing what we can, and recycling the many materials that can be used as raw supplies for new products. The use of recycled materials in industry is fast becoming an industry standard. The average home disposes of five pounds of trash per person each day, or, about 35 pounds of trash per person every week. In a year, that means 22 million tons of trash is generated just in the state of Texas. Almost 67% of the trash makes its way into our landfills—landfills that are running out of capacity, and new landfills are very difficult to open.
Reduce
- Select products with very little packaging—consider packaging waste before buying.
- Don’t buy more than required.
- Plan ahead and avoid impulse buying.
- Use refillable containers.
- Buy in bulk to save on packaging disposal.
- Buy products that contain recycled materials in packaging and content.
- Look for higher quality goods that are made to last a long time.
- Start a compost pile to reduce volume of grass and leaves going to the landfill.
- Fix broken toys and appliances instead of throwing them away (or give them to someone who will).
Reuse
Reuse everything possible. Reusable products and containers result in less waste, which results in conservation of raw materials and natural resources. Many products are designed for more than one use, such as using a coffee cup instead of disposable foam cups. Examine labels to see if the product is recycled or recyclable. Choose packaging that is post consumer. Glass containers average over 30% post consumer recycled content and aluminum is continually recyclable.
Recycle
Recycling is the process by which materials are collected and used as raw materials for new products. Recycling saves potentially useful materials from ending up in a landfill or from being burned.
- Recycling paper uses 60% less energy than manufacturing paper from virgin timber.
- Americans use 2,500,000 plastic bottles every hour! Most of them are thrown away, but could be recycled.
- Each aluminum can that is recycled saves enough electric energy to run a television for three hours.
Products labeled as containing ‘post-consumer’ content means that the product was made with materials that have been used by consumers, rather than with materials from the original production process using virgin materials. And, by purchasing recycled goods, consumers are creating higher demand for recycling.
Examine labels to see if the product is recycled or recyclable. Look for the words RECYCLED or RECYCLABLE. Ask the store manager to stock both recyclable products and products packaged in recycled material.
- Consider the use of alternatives to harsh chemicals. When you use paints, chemicals and other types of hazardous waste, dispose of them properly.
- Reduce your waste by reusing. Avoid over-packaged contents in the things you buy. Recycle everything that can be recycled: paper, cardboard and all types of metals. Compost your yard clippings, and use that compost instead of fertilizer.
- Use mulch instead of chemicals to reduce weed groth in flower beds.
- Conserve energy by turning off lights and televisions when they are no longer being used. Reduce thermostat of heating and cooling, by even a single degree. Buy ’energy efficient’ or 'Energy Star' appliances. Use less gasoline by becoming conscious of your driving habits; combine trips when running errands.
- Inspire your friends and neighbors to be environmentally conscious. Teach those around you by setting a good example.