We all generate waste and there is no getting around it. However, we can still make an effort to stop it from becoming even more of a problem.
The average person will end up generating around four pounds of trash every day. Over the span of a year, that amounts to one huge pile of garbage. So how can we counteract the inevitability of creating waste? By following the “3 Rs,” of waste management. And here is how to use them:
- Reduce: Overall, the best way to help is simply to reduce how much trash you are generating. Rather than using paper plates and plastic utensils, spring for a set of dishes and silverware. This will actually end up saving you money in the long run by not needing to repurchase any plastic cutlery.
If you can avoid it, also try to stop eating out as much. This may sound strange, but the majority of places you eat will use disposable dishes or paper to wrap up your food. Instead, you can use Tupperware to store and transport food that you made at home. - Reuse: If you find it difficult to do so, in case there’s no time to cook due to the craziness of everyday life, at least make a point not to throw everything away after one use. For example, if you go grocery shopping and carry out your food in bags, save those bags and bring them next time you go shopping.
- Recycle: Making an effort to recycle whatever waste you can is not actually as difficult as it may sound. More than 87% of Americans have access to curbside drop-off paper removal and recycling services. They will provide a receptacle to fill with your recyclables, and then all you must do is leave it at the bottom of the driveway for removal.
These may seem like small changes to make for an individual, but everyone working as a whole to follow the “3 Rs” can make a substantial difference. We have the resources — we can optimize our waste removal.
