As a society, we have been progressively throwing away more trash every year. In 1960, people in North America threw out an average of 2.7 lbs of trash per day. That amount has since increased to 4.5 lbs per day! This waste sits in the landfill, where oxygen often cannot reach, therefore stalling the decomposition process. As the waste in the land-fill gradually decomposes, it releases methane, which is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. To re-duce the amount of garbage we produce, we must change our lifestyles. The following suggestions are little changes to your everyday life that will make a difference:
- Purchase products that last longer
- Purchase products that have little to no packaging
- Bring along reusable coffee mugs – say no to disposable paper cups
- Use cloth shopping bags instead of plastic bags
- Use rechargeable batteries rather than single use ones
- Start composting at home
Waste Reduction Links: