They’ve Got This!
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Tips from an Expert
By: Annemarie Sampson
IG @sustainable_sourceatarian
FB @Sustainable Sourceatarian
773-771-0527
Reduce
The best way to manage waste is to reduce it.
Reducing means:
- Using fewer resources in the first place by reducing consumption and buying less.
- Understanding who the manufacturer is and what they are committed to as it relates to reducing their carbon footprint as a company. Understanding the manufacturing, ingredients and/or materials, packaging, distribution and company policy as it relates to policies within their corporate facilities.
How can we reduce?
1) Bike more drive less
2) Conserve water, turn off the tap and washing your hands for brushing your teeth
3) Conserve water by using climate appropriate plants
4) Conserve water by growing your vegetable garden in mulch
5) Make water efficient choices with purchasing showerheads, Fossett heads, toilets, dishwashers and washing machines
6) Use laundry detergent’s they are eco-friendly and manufactured to work efficiently in cold water
7) Eat locally produced food, 13% of US greenhouse gas emissions result from the production and transportation of food
8) Shop with US manufacturers for consumable goods, shop with US manufactures committed to reducing their carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions in their manufacturing, distribution and packaging practices
9) Support manufacturing companies who never use chlorine bleach, ammonia, formaldehyde, parabens, phosphates, phthalates or triclosan
10) Do not be “green” washed GREENWASHING – greenwashing is the process of conveying a false impression or providing misleading information about how a company’s products are more environmentally sound
Reuse
It is estimated that 30% of US greenhouse gas emissions come from the “provision of goods“, which means extraction of resources, manufacturing, transportation and final disposal. This would include consumer products and packaging, building components and passenger vehicles, this excludes food.
By purchasing second hand or used products You dramatically reduce your carbon footprint from the “provision of goods“.
Upcycling, repurposing, refurbish, restore, update or revamp… Whatever word you choose, many items have the potential to be used over and over for other purposes. Giving items new meaning in life will save you money and drastically improve your carbon footprint.
Simple Ways to Reuse.
1) Start in your home and if you need help hire a professional like Jen!
2) Old blankets and towels are perfect in pet shelters
3) If composting seems too hard, start simple… Reuse coffee grounds in your garden or soil
4) Reuse glass containers (from your jellies to your peanut butters ) or other tubs for leftovers
5) Donate old books, or close to local shelters
6) Turn your old tennis shoes into playground material (many local running stores have bins for drop off)
7) Donate your old cell phones, computers, and other electronics… There are many companies out there that will take your hand me downs
8) Have a friend exchange… You can do it with clothes, dinnerware, books and even furniture! It’s a fun way to host a party and find something new you love without challenging the earth’s resources
9) Do not be “green” washed GREENWASHING – greenwashing is the process of conveying a false impression or providing misleading information about how a company’s products are more environmentally sound
Recycle
Recycle what you can’t reuse or reduce.
Quick Tips on Recycling
1) Commit to companies to utilize recycled and compostable packaging
2) Recycle your old technology
3) Make recycling bins readily available. This can be an awesome project for your home and for your office. Make sure there are separate bins for paper, plastic and metal. Keep them out in the open and labeled appropriately
4) Buy rechargeable batteries and LED efficient light bulbs
5) Make sure you’re bringing your own cup to your favorite morning coffee shop!
6) Bring your own bags when shopping… everywhere… keep them next to your bike helmet and some in your car that way they’re available whenever you are
7) Do not be “green” washed GREENWASHING – greenwashing is the process of conveying a false impression or providing misleading information about how a company’s products are more environmentally sound
One need, one conversation a a time,
Annemarie Sampson
IG @sustainable_sourceatarian
FB @Sustainable Sourceatarian
773-771-0527