Hey earth muffins! When opting out of mainstream living to pursue something a bit more sustainable, it is important to follow something called the waste hierarchy. You might be familiar with a short version of it: “reduce, reuse, recycle”. This slogan not only reminds us what we should be doing with our waste, but it also tells us the order of what we need to focus on. Let’s jump into a discussion about the full waste hierarchy!
1. Reduce & Refuse
First up, we must try to reduce our consumption as much as possible (which might mean refusing certain products). Living with the planet in mind isn’t just about recycling plastic – we need to consciously reduce the amount of resources we consume in our daily lives. If we minimize what we purchase or use, we won’t even have to deal with this waste!
2. Repair & Respect
When I’m think of the waste hierarchy, I like to add in repair between the common reduce and reuse stages. You have refused everything you don’t need; but (for the items you do need/use), it is crucial to repair them throughout their useful life. Clothing will last much longer if we take the time to repair holes, buttons, etc. The same goes for anything! Treat your items with respect and repair them so that they last as long as possible.
3. Reuse, Rethink, & Repurpose
Once an item is no longer capable of doing its purpose, we move to the reuse phase of the waste hierarchy. Instead of just tossing it into the trash, get creative on how you can turn it into something useful around the house. The options are literally endless… And the Internet is full of ideas if you can’t think of something yourself! Rethink & repurpose everything you can to reduce waste from your home.
4. Rot
Composting is a great way to get rid of waste… Because it turns into something useful for the garden and avoids the nasty landfill! Try to compost as much waste you can before turning to the final step of the hierarchy.
5. Recycle
This stage is only successful if you take the time to recycle properly. Learn the rules of your city’s curbside recycling and/or take your items to a recycling center. Again, this recycle step should be considered 5th in the waste hierarchy – make sure you emphasize the stages above to live more eco-friendly!
Bonus step – Reflect
Everyone has heard of some version of the waste hierarchy. Whether it’s the quick and easy version (“reduce, reuse, recycle”) or this longer one, it is important to follow the steps in their order to be as sustainable as possible. I also like to add a final reflect stage. Once an item has gone to it’s final destination (compost, recycle bin, landfill), take some time to think about if you need to use it again. You might be surprised at what you can avoid in the future! Have you heard of this longer version of the waste hierarchy? Comment below and let me know which stages are your favorite!
Love,
Jenna ♥
Thanks for the tips.