Our culture of rampant consumerism is drowning us in rubbish. In fact the average American generates some 4.5 pounds of trash each day. Reduce Reuse Recycle is all very well, but still the garbage is piling up in landfills.
It can seem like an insurmountable problem. But, in reality, the solution is relatively simple. The easiest way to reduce the amount of rubbish you send to the landfill is to reduce the amount of potential rubbish that you purchase.
Here are 10 tips to help you be a more mindful consumer and to minimise your contribution to our landfills:
Don't Buy Excess Packaging
When shopping look for products that have a minimum of packaging. Buy your fruit and vegetables loose rather than prepackaged. Check that the packaging you do end up with can be recycled. Choose Reusable Rather than Disposable
Opt for items you can use over and over. Cloth nappies rather than disposable, use reusable sponges to clean up in the kitchen rather than paper towels, use razors with replaceable blades . . Buy Products that Will Last
When shopping, look for well made items. Buying quality may cost more upfront, but in the long run it will save you money AND mean you have less to throw out. Say NO to Plastic Shopping Bags
Take your own reusable bags with you when you go shopping and politely refuse shopping bags! Only Buy Items that Can Be Recycled
If it can't be safely recycled don't buy it! Buy in Bulk
Cut down on the packaging materials by buying in bulk. Try shopping at stores where you can take your own bottles and containers to refill. Often you'll get a better deal for buying in bulk too. Go Digital
Purchase your music and videos as downloads rather than CDs or DVDs. Get your news online rather than having a "real" newspaper delivered. Send e-cards rather than paper ones . . . Make Your Own
You can easily make your own cleaning products from a few basic ingredients that can be purchased easily from the supermarket. You can reuse containers for your cleaning products. Make your own sauces, jams and pickles - use reusable containers and lids. Make your own clothes - you will generate less packaging waste in the form of tags and labels. Make your own lunches for school or work and once again you will be generating much less packaging waste. Look After the Things You Own
Maintain your assets in good condition. If you take care of them they will last longer. This way you will be buying less over time and sending less to the landfill. Think Before You Buy
Is the product (or service) in line with your values as an ethical consumer? Do you actually need it? Can it be recycled? Do you need to buy new or will secondhand be just as good? Is there an alternative with less packaging? Could you borrow or hire it instead?
