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Waste Reduction

• Reduce food waste by using up the food you already bought and have in the house instead of buying more. You already paid for it - so use it! 
• Plan ahead before visiting a grocery store.  Carry our own reusable bags.  Purchase only what you need, and discard fruit and vegetable trimmings, egg shells, coffee grounds, etc. in your compost pile.
• Plan ahead. Check with local charities to see if they can take perishable food. Non-perishable and unspoiled can be donated to local food banks, soup kitchens, pantries, and shelters.
• Repurpose household items. Socks and old t-shirts can become rags and wipes. Use empty jars for drinking classes or storage for nuts and bolts, toys, etc.
• Save and reuse party decorations, gift wrap, gift bags, greeting cards and gift boxes. For example, greeting cards can be reused for gift tags and post cards. Be creative and have fun!
• Reduce packaging waste and save you money! A large portion of household waste consists of packaging.  Minimize waste by buying cleaning products in concentrated form and food products in large sizes or in bulk.  Bring your own bags or refillable containers to the store.
• Buy recycled products. When purchasing check the labels to see if the item or its packaging has recycled content. Buying recycled encourages manufacturers to make more recycled-content products available.
• Buy products in packaging that can be recycled locally. Make sure what you are buying can be recycled in your blue cart .
• Pack your lunch in reusable containers. Carry your own refillable water bottle and travel mug.
• Be a careful shopper.  Compare products' quality, durability, recycled content, recyclability, and packaging.  Give preference to longer product life, minimal packaging, and recyclability.  Recycled content is a plus, as it avoids waste and environmental harm caused by extraction of raw materials.
• Use rechargeable rather than alkaline batteries for toys and small appliances.
• Minimize paper use to preserve forests and habitat for wildlife.  Send e-cards, opt for online delivery of subscription magazines and newspapers, save files and documents electronically, and use both sides of the paper when you print.
• Ask your doctor for a trial-size prescription, along with the full prescription, when you're trying a new medication. Fill only the trial-size to determine whether the medication is effective and causes no adverse effects. You'll save money and avoid medications you can't use.