At the same time that it confronts the challenges of waste reduction, reuse also sustains the “embodied energy” that was originally used to manufacture an item. With a few exceptions, reuse accomplishes the goals of waste reduction more effectively than recycling. Always choose to reuse first and then recycle.
The following tips will help you to save a bit of environment and our resources and of course your money by propagating the principle of reuse into your life.
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The local used bookstore has more amazing novels than you could ever imagine. So visit your local used bookstore before purchasing a new book.
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Take envelops which are sent by businesses, place a label over the pre printed address, write in a new address, and send it on its way.
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If you have a lot of magazines that you no longer wants, you can always take them to waiting rooms of hospitals, railway stations, dentists or even your workplace.
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Bring your own reusable canvas or cotton bag to the grocery store or to the mall to carry your purchased items.
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You can also reuse paper or plastic bags to help reduce trash that ends up in landfills or in areas where wildlife lives.
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Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminium rather than plastic, with you while travelling or at work.
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Go online to find new or gently used second hand products.
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Old ketchup, mustard etc. bottles can be used to store your own homemade sauces and condiments.
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Punch holes in small jar caps to create a spice or cheese shaker.
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Thoroughly clean up used aluminium cans from canned soups and chips can be reused as pencil, pen and marker holders.
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Use one sided printed paper for your rough work or even reuse it to print on other side.
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Re-invent your old clothes with hands on cutting and add-on accessories.
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Reuse everything at least twice.