3 More Ways to Reduce your Waste
We have all embraced the 3 R’s – reduce, reuse and recycle. But did you know there are 3 more R’s that are just as important to remember? Not everyone knows them but they are key to saving the planet and leading a healthier, more eco-friendly way of life, and they’re great for your budget too!
REFUSE
Avoid creating unnecessary waste. The next time a sales clerk offers you a flyer, consider if you actually need it. Refuse to take shopping bags, produce bags, receipts, extra napkins and plastic cutlery. And, avoid items wrapped in too much packaging. Rather than choosing produce that’s wrapped in cellophane and mesh, look for loose (and when possible) locally grown items.
REPURPOSE
Try to avoid single-use items. Instead, look for reusable options like beeswax wrap or reusable containers instead of plastic wrap or aluminum foil. In a pinch, you can use a dinner plate, pot lid, or cutting board as a cover. Replace paper towels with cloth towels, and when your favourite mug cracks use it to pot a succulent or as a catch-all-jar, think pens, paper clips, thumbtacks and pennies.
REPAIR
Perhaps the toughest of the 6 Rs, it’s also the most lucrative. Instead of buying a new pair of jeans as soon as your favourite pair shows some wear or the zipper starts to catch on a jacket, fix it yourself or have it repaired at a dry cleaner or tailor. A repair is much cheaper than buying new, and it reduces waste. A simple needle and thread can do wonders as can a patch. Even appliances like toasters, vacuums, power tools, lawnmowers and snow blowers can be taken to a repair store.
