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Solid Waste and Recycling
Source Reduction

Source reduction is also known as waste prevention or waste reduction and means using less material to get the job done. Source reduction involves eliminating waste before it is created. It includes the design, manufacture, purchase or use of materials and products to reduce the amount or toxicity of what is thrown away. Best of all, practicing source reduction can save you money.

Source Reduction Tips for Around the Home, Yard and Office

• Purchase items in bulk or economy size. Look for concentrate form and reusable containers.
• Purchase only items that you need or intend to use soon.
• Purchase products with the least amount of packaging. More of your dollar will go toward the product instead of the packaging.
• Repair older items rather than purchasing new ones.
• Reuse plastic and paper bags. Better yet, use cloth or mesh bags to hold your purchases.
• Avoid using disposable cups, plates and cutlery.
• Save old bows, tissue paper, Styrofoam peanuts and gift boxes to wrap future gifts.
• Use rechargeable batteries whenever possible.
• Donate magazines to schools, libraries or doctor offices.
• Donate unwanted items (food, clothing, equipment, furniture or appliances) to charitable organizations.
• Sell unwanted items (food, clothing, equipment, furniture or appliances).
• Use a mulching mower to finely shred your grass and leave on the lawn to add nutrients back to the soil.
• Start a backyard compost pile. Home compost can be used in gardens or flower beds.
• Eliminate unnecessary forms in the office.
• Print or copy on both sides of the paper.
• Design mailers which avoid the use of envelopes.
• Use e-mail or voice mail instead of memos.
• Make reports and other documents available online.
• Use telephones instead of fax when appropriate.

Source Reduction: Stop Waste Before It Starts!