Waste Reduction Tips

In addition to recycling, you can reduce the amount you send to the landfill through waste reduction.

Residential Waste Reduction Tips
  • Store leftovers in reusable containers instead of using plastic wrap or aluminum foil
  • Compost your organic waste
  • Use reusable and washable cotton bags instead of using plastic bags when shopping
  • Use cloth rags for cleaning around the house instead of disposable ones
  • Use reusable utensils, plates, cups and napkins
  • Buy products with minimal packaging
  • Reuse packing containers and bags
  • Use rechargeable batteries
  • Donate unwanted items to a thrift store
Business Waste Reduction Tips
  • Use a reusable lunch bag instead of a plastic or paper bag
  • Reuse paper for notes instead of using new sticky notes
  • Use washable cups, plates and utensils instead of disposables
  • Institute double-sided (duplex) copying to reduce paper use and mailing costs
  • Use alternatives to paper communication, such as voice mail and email
  • Use rechargeable batteries
  • Examine production and purchasing procedures to cut down on waste
  • Buy products with minimal packaging
  • Buy in bulk or in economy-size packages
  • Reuse packing containers and bags
  • Donate leftover food to a food bank or homeless shelter
  • Donate unwanted items to a thrift store