Getting Started

Waste reduction helps save raw materials and landfill space. It�s also a good way to reduce pollution and save energy. Waste Reduction starts with the changes you can make at home, work, in your community and when shopping. 

Shopping:  

• Buy only what you need.  
• Purchase in Bulk.    
• Avoid "over-packaged" products. 
• Avoid disposable goods. 
• Read the label- Choose materials made with non toxic ingredients.
• Reuse or refuse shopping bags - bring your own sturdy bags.
• Buy durable, high quality goods.

At Home:  

• Reuse household articles such as bags, boxes and plastic food containers. 
• Maintain and repair items before buying new ones. 
• Rent instead of buying such as a power tool.  
• Sell or donate goods you no longer want.
• Donate old magazines and catalogues to local charities, waiting rooms or schools.
• Leave cut grass clippings in your lawn.
• Place the following items in your curbside container and set on curb on your neighborhood's recycling day or take to your recycling drop-off center: newspaper, glass, aluminum cans, foil and pie plates, tin cans and #1 and #2 plastics bottles.

At Work: 

• Make two-sided copies, whenever possible.
• Make interoffice phone calls, if appropriate instead of sending memos.
• Use ceramic mugs or glasses instead of disposable cups.
• Use scrap paper for memos, notes, etc.
• Reuse envelopes for routing memos and office materials.