July 27, 2021: The 4 R's Part 1

Let's get down to basics and review the 4 R's .... REDUCE, RE-USE, REPAIR, RECYCLE

DID YOU KNOW - Ontario has a "Waste Management Division" that is responsible for how all waste is managed in the province. It is committed to shifting to producers being responsible for the waste generated by their products and packaging and that the waste is ultimately seen as resource than can be recovered, reused and reintegrated back into the economy.

 REDUCE Consumption ....... Buy Less, Buy used, Buy local

  • Try purchasing only what you NEED. (That is a tough one) Avoid impulse buying or sale items just because.

  • Replace single used items with reusable ones (ie. single use disposable coffee pods can be replaced with refillable pods).

  • Avoid one time disposable goods such as plastic cutlery, plates, cups, paper napkins, etc.

  • Buy in bulk if possible (share with family and friends) to avoid overly wrapped individual items. Some stores are encouraging shoppers to bring in their own containers and are going zero waste (or trying to)

  • Cut open all toothpaste, moisturizer tubes, etc. (up to 20% more product)

  • Invest in reusable glass storage containers/lids (glass pasta jars work well),travel mugs, water bottles to name a few.

  • Adjust printer to make double sided copies when you need to print and reuse blank sides for notes and even used envelopes make great notepaper.

  • REFUSE (another R) to accept excessive packaging (be vocal: Write/Email your concerns) 

REUSE

  • It is fun to browse and shop second hand stores. Lots of money savings and finds.

  • Sell/donate old clothes, furniture, toys, etc. in garage sales, ads/ online exchanges/ give a ways, consignment stores or donate to charities

  • Pass on toys (usually plastic) etc. to friends or just by placing on curb will usually find a new home

  • Re-use or repurpose items for other uses (decorative or useful)

  • Share DVD's, magazines, etc. books ( Calvary Book Club shares)

  • Borrow, rent or lend out infrequently used items (shar large purchases with family and friends)

  • Carry cloth/reusable grocery bags, produce bags. Many stores have or are eliminating their plastic bags for paper.

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