Recycling is important, but reduction and reuse are the most environmental and cost-effective methods of dealing with solid waste. It is through your activities and efforts that wastes are either generated or prevented. Here are some simple steps you can take to decrease the waste that you generate:
- Use both sides of every sheet of paper. Whether making double-sided copies or writing on the back of each sheet, this will dramatically reduce the amount of paper purchased and waste produced.
- Reuse office supplies within your department or office. Dedicate a cabinet or closet area to reusable boxes, manila folders, 3-ring binders, envelopes, rubber bands, packaging materials, campus mail envelopes, paper clips, and many other reusable items. If your department has more reusables than it can use, please call the ReUse center to find need for the supplies elsewhere throughout campus.
- To dry hands, use less than one foot of paper toweling.
- Office supply exchange: set up an office supply exchange for your department or building.
- Share magazines, newspapers, and phone books with co-workers.
- Buy in bulk: it is cheaper and uses less packaging.
- Buy recycled: purchase products made from recyclable materials, and are recyclable. By doing so, you are completing the recycling loop.
- Avoid hazardous materials: Many times, very effective non-hazardous alternatives are available (i.e. pump sprays versus aerosols).
- Start a compost pile at home: 25 percent of the nation's waste is organic waste and can be converted to soil.
- Use reusable containers: When transporting your lunch or snacks, store them in reusable containers instead of disposable bags. Use a mug at the office instead of disposable cups. Bring food back home to a compost pile.
- Choose to purchase non-disposable goods: Buy durable, refillable, and repairable quality products. Even though the initial cost may be higher, it is less expensive and less wasteful in the long run.
- Select vendors who take back containers: Often times, wooden pallets, five gallon pails, Styrofoam shipping boxes, or similar items will be taken back by distributors.
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