The R’s Page
We all know the basic 3R’s. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Over time those R’s have expanded into 5 major R’s. However, we have taken it upon ourselves to increase the number of R’s and turn it into a guide on how to live a zero waste lifestyle.
REFOCUS
Creating experiences rather than giving material gifts shifts the focus to people and away from things. Spend the time to prepare a meal from scratch rather than making a pre-packaged dinner and cultivate newfound respect for food and the farmer. A great way to spend time with loved ones.
Image by vectorjuice on Freepik
Image by vectorjuice on Freepik
REFUSE
Kindly refuse things you don’t need. Giveaways, freebies, the bag from the dentist’s office, birthday goodie bags, and advertising swag often end up as clutter or are quickly broken. Simply say “no thank you”. You don’t have to accept things just because they are given.
REDUCE
Become a conscious consumer; ask yourself “do I really need this?” Practice delayed gratification. In many cases, you will find you really didn’t need the item in the first place.
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
REUSE
Ditch throw away paper napkins, plastic plates, paper towels, and move to reusable items. Shop with reusable produce bags and bulk bags or jars in the bulk bin aisle to reduce packaging.
REPAIR
Fix it rather than tossing it. This sends a message to manufacturers that we want high-quality items that we can repair rather than tossing a broken item into a landfill.
Image by vectorjuice on Freepik
Image by syarifahbrit on Freepik
REMEMBER
Bring your own shopping bags, water bottles, cutlery, coffee cup, or take out containers to use when you are out and about.
REQUEST
Ask your local shops, restaurants, food trucks, online stores, or any other business you use to move toward more eco-friendly options.
Image by vectorjuice on Freepik
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
RECYCLE
If you simply can’t avoid packaging choose recyclables. Become familiar with what is really recyclable in your municipality
REFILL
Try to buy products that can be refillable so there is less container waste. This includes everything from drink cups to household cleaning supplies.
RETHINK
Before you buy items rethink how necessary they are. Often times we buy items we do not actually need and they end up causing more waste.
ROT (COMPOST)
Start a backyard compost/worm bin and start collecting food scraps from your kitchen. You can also use a compost pickup service. Check our your city guides for links to one in your area. Check our “Resources” page for more information on compost bins. You can also use services such as “Sharewaste” where you can drop off food waste at a local garden or neighbor.
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