Trim your trash – implementing the ‘three Rs’ and a couple of others
As we become more aware of our environmental impact and understand the need to reduce the amount of trash we are leaving on this planet, learning to become “mindful consumers” is key.
Our trash comes from our lifestyle choices and what we purchase. We all have a unique lifestyle, so the opportunity will be different for each household. The best way to understand where there is a possibility to trim down our waste is to understand what’s in our trash. In my experience, I have found the most common categories to cut back on are items associated with food, toiletries, cleaning supplies, paper goods and packaging from new “stuff.” Here are the popular “three Rs” – and a few others – to help us become mindful consumers.
Reduce
• Purchasing bulk items or concentrated cleaning products can trim down on packaging.
• Be wise with portion size — how much toothpaste do you really need on that brush? How much shampoo, conditioner or laundry detergent will do the job?
Reuse
• Many grocery stores now offer bulk bins in which you can fill the container of your choice, so reuse your bread bags, produce bags and other containers, etc. (nothing with meat, dairy or moisture).
• Can you wash out that jar and use it at a coffee shop instead of using a paper cup that is offered at the store?
• Cut up old T-shirts to replace your paper towel usage.
Recycle
I encourage recycling whenever possible, but keep in mind that fossil fuels and pollution are associated with such a process, so choose your packaged products wisely.
• Taos recycling currently accepts clean plastics 1 and 2, phone books, newspapers and corrugated cardboard. Taos recycling also accepts aluminum, tin and steel cans, along with e-waste. For other items, you may look online at townoftaos.gov.
Rethink
Much of our trash comes from the packaging that our “new” items come in. By asking ourselves a few questions before we purchase, we can possibly reduce trash, possibly save money and reduce the fossil fuels used in manufacturing and shipping such items.
• Do I really need it? Can this be purchased secondhand (thrift shop or online)? Can I borrow it? Can I purchase it at a local venue? What is the smartest packaging or sourcing?
Refuse
It’s amazing how much trash can be forced upon us in the name of “customer service.” I notice this for every cocktail napkin, straw or bag that is automatically handed to me.
• We can politely be up front about our desires to have a great experience with less trash when we communicate with our server by saying, “In an effort to trim the trash on our planet, can you do what you can to help me enjoy my experience with minimal trash?” Most servers will be happy to oblige (it’s their planet, too). For the ones who don’t, empathize that it makes their routine different, so it may take a moment for them to be comfortable with your request.
• Be prepared. If we carry our water bottle, coffee cup or other to-go item with us (or in our car), we can refuse the container, therefore eliminating so much unnecessary waste.
And remember: The healthiest and best foods in life come from Mother Nature, so support your local farmers and support a community or personal garden. Fruits and veggies come in nature’s very own biodegradable container. No trash for your body or the planet!
Reach Fernandez at healthnhappiness4life@gmail.com.
