Reduce Waste in Your Community

Being careful about what you buy, consume, and throw away may not seem all that exciting even for the most committed environmental steward. But efficient daily practices and a little old fashioned common sense are good for the environment and your bottom line.

Use this checklist to see how many waste management and recycling practices you’ve implemented. Then make a plan of action to expand your efforts.

• Make waste reduction a priority in your home.

• Evaluate the waste you generate to identify and reduce your greatest sources of waste.

• Measure the volume or weight of the garbage you generate and set measurable reduction targets.

• Reject wasteful consumption by carefully considering what you need and buying products that last.

• Purchase products with minimal packaging or packaging that can be recycled, or buy in bulk.

• Use cloth napkins, cloth lunch bags, sponges/dish rags, reusable plates, and reusable coffee filters instead of paper alternatives.

• Repair or donate older or unwanted equipment and household goods to local charitable groups, rather than dispose of them.

• Purchase durable furniture and equipment or products made of recycled material to reduce waste from inferior products.

• Purchase recycled paper products, such as office paper, bathroom tissue, etc.

• Set up an area to collect recyclable of paper, glass, cardboard, aluminum, tin, and plastic.

• Compost outdoor wastes such as grass clippings, leaves, and kitchen waste (no meat or onions).