From Green America’s Green Deals
- Buy less: Start at the root of the problem by consuming fewer products.
- Reuse existing items: Often the simplest solution to a problem is to just reuse an item you already own for a new purpose. (Look for our repurposed banner bags at ReTree Steamboat on June 9th!)
- Buy reusable’s: Just like reusing existing items, have reuse in mind when you’re in need of something new.
- Repair rather than replace: Even when an item breaks, it may still have a lot of life left in it.
- Make your own: When possible, you can make your own consumable products.
- Sell or give old items away: You may not have a use for your old stereo or the afghan from your great aunt, but more than likely someone else can make use of it.
- Choose secondhand: When you do need flooring for your new home or a suit for the office, why not try out secondhand or consignment stores. (See local partners at www.salvageit.org!)
- Cut packaging waste: Packaging can make up nearly 30% of your trash bin. So when faced with a choice between two similar products, choose the one with the least total packaging.
- Start recycling: Though not the most effective choice for reducing waste (see all preceding tips here for better ideas), having a home recycling program is extremely important. It is the eco-friendly way to handle all of the waste that you can’t prevent.
- Compost organics: Waste that easily biodegrades – food scraps, yard clippings, and the like – are bad for climate change when they head to the landfill. (Contact milner@twinenviro.com to get on the residential compost list!)
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