Tips on reducing waste

Choose durable, long-lasting products over disposables. Use a personal coffee mug instead of disposable cups; use a durable, re-use shopping bag when grocery shopping; consider a diaper service over disposable diapers.

If generating frequent, high-volume mailings, eliminate use of labels by choosing equipment that prints the recipient's address directly onto the envelope or publication. Borrow books/publications from the library or share with others.

Use refillable pens, pencils, cleaning products, etc. so that the product is used, without the need to throw out the container. Choose products with minimum packaging; consider buying bulk or concentrated products. Make it, bake it, grow it and reduce packaging.

Use cloth instead of paper towels for clean-ups. Carry lunches and snacks in reusable containers and bags. Talk to store managers, manufacturers and/or suppliers where a product contributes excessively to the waste stream.

Use less toxic products

When changing automotive oil, recycle the used oil at a service station or recycling centre. Many landfills also accept used oil for recycling.

Buy as needed when purchasing cleaning supplies. Choose less toxic or non-toxic supplies.

Share leftover paints, pesticides and cleaning products with another user (or dispose of them at an Alberta household hazardous waste round-up).

Resource and patronize companies that practise pollution prevention.

Conserve energy

A well-tuned car conserves gas and emits fewer emissions.

Last one out turns off the lights.

Walk, carpool or ride a bike.

Turn water off when brushing teeth.

Run only full washing machine/dishwasher loads.