Creative Ways to Reduce Waste

According the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), each year Americans create millions of tons of trash. Some of the items that end up in landfills can actually be recycled, donated or used for other purposes. Managing waste is a challenge for many communities with some U.S. states approaching landfill maximum capacity within ten years.

Reduce Waste

One of the first steps to reducing waste is to consume less. Take the opportunity to evaluate your purchases. Before buying anything determine if the items is truly necessary. When a purchase is required, look for options with the least amount of packaging. Shop for produce at a farmer's market instead of a grocery store where items are prepackaged. Consider buying items in bulk and use your own containers or bags to store them in. Look for items that are in packaging that is recyclable. Avoid purchasing single-use items and opt for the versions that can be used over and over again. Avoid throwing out books, clothing, bikes and toys. Consider donating the items instead.

Reduce Waste by Reusing Items

Cleaning with disposable cloths is convenient but wasteful. Consider using micro-fiber cloths or rags made out of an old t-shirt instead. These can both be washed and used over and over again. When going to the grocery store, bring your own reusable bags. Keep them in the car so they are available for you when you need them. Instead of buying a new book, check the book out from the library instead.

Turn coffee cans and tin cans into flowers to give your landscape personality. Use old glassware as candle holders or vases for fresh cut flowers. Old tarnished silverware can be transformed into plant markers or wind chimes. Bottle caps can be collected and secured to a piece of wood to create a unique piece of art.

Reduce Waste by Recycling

Before throwing anything away, see if it can be recycled. Check with your local waste management agency to determine the types of items they accept for recycling. Aluminum cans, glass, newspaper, copy paper, magazines, cardboard and several plastics are accepted in many municipal recycling programs.

Composting food waste and coffee grounds can reduce the amount of waste you produce each week. The EPA provides a complete listing of items that can be composted which includes tea bags, yard trimmings, eggshells, fruits and vegetables and leaves.

One of the important parts of being green is reducing your waste. Stop and think before you buy or toss anything and you'll be on the path to living a greener lifestyle.

Sources:U.S. EPA Waste Reduction - http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/wycd/catbook/source.htm