Waste Less Buyer

Waste reduction will continue to be the most important option that people can choose to help minimize their waste stream. Certain waste reduction practices offer several benefits in addition to minimizing waste, such as helping to conserve natural resources, saving energy, preventing pollution, and even saving money. Minimizing the amount of waste you throw out means less money spent on impulse items, packaging, and non-durable goods.

Waste Management Hierarchy

Reduce: Every time we buy an item we reduce the amount of natural resources available on the Earth. By creating less waste and using fewer natural resources, we reduce our impact on the natural environment. Reuse: many products are easier to repair than to replace; look for durable, lighter, and longer lasting items. Recycle: if an item needs to be disposed of then try to recycle it. It’s better to recycle wastes and buy recycled products than continue to take from the Earth’s finite supply of natural resources. After the first 3 steps, incineration and landfill disposal should be the last two options to consider.

Environmental Stewardship

If our goal is to conserve natural resources, we all need to do our part to be greener consumers. While it is inevitable we will create waste, it is practical for us to create less waste and reduce the impact on our environment. Each time we purchase a product we are approving of the way it is packaged and presented. We can change business practices by supporting those companies that are waste conscious and environmentally responsible. If you choose to buy waste consciously, then let everyone know that your buying decisions are made based on the environmental impact from products. Be sure to tell store personnel, managers, businesses, and friends!

Green Consumers

A large variety of goods are available in several different sizes, shapes, and packaging options. Being able to identify which products use fewer natural resources and have the least negative impact on the environment will help you become a greener consumer.

1. The Shopping List

Shopping lists help many people to become better shoppers by eliminating impulse buys and other unnecessary purchases. A shopping list can guide your shopping experience to help you avoid spending money on items that you don’t need and that eventually end up in the trash can.

2. Cloth Bags

A good shopping experience is to add up the number of plastic or paper bags you refused! Once you start avoiding the plastic and paper dilemma you may realize that placing a bag inside a bag can be redundant. By using canvas or cloth reusable bags you can reduce most of those unwanted bags.

 

3. Avoid Excess Packaging

Try to avoid items that are double packaged or wrapped in packaging that exceeds the size of the item. Consider whether it is necessary to purchase items such as tomatoes, corn, and mushrooms in prepackaged containers when they can be bought unpackaged.

 

4. Concentrates

Concentrated products use less energy and require less packaging. Many products are available in concentrated form such as powdered and dehydrated foods. Some examples include frozen juices, kool-aid packets, gravies & dips, and detergents & cleaners.

5. Bulk Goods

Large single containers for items that you use regularly require less packaging and can save you money. Consider the largest size available when buying common kitchen and household products. Items such as pasta, pet food, laundry detergent, and shampoo can be purchased in large quantities that give you more product with less packaging.

 

6. Avoid Throwaways

Try to avoid buying single or limited use items such as plastic razors, baking pans, plastic eating utensils, paper plates, etc.. Look for items that are non-disposable or reusable.

 

7. Recyclable Packaging

Give preference to items that are packaged in materials that can be recycled through your local collection program. But please keep in mind to reduce and reuse before you recycle. Practicing the first 6 steps may be the most beneficial things you can do to reduce solid waste and conserve natural resources.

 

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Last modified December 16, 2003