Helpful Hints for Reducing Waste
Almost all the products we buy come in packaging that get thrown away.  Packaging makes up half of our garbage.  The average Pennsylvanian throws away more than four pounds of trash each day.  Here are some tips:

Choose wisely – remember to look for packaging with the recycle symbol on it.  Paper can be recycled as many as seven times before the fibers become too small.

Make less trash:

• Use dishes instead of paper plates

• Drink juice from concentrate instead of boxes

• Reduce your use of disposable products

• Substitute reusable and recyclable products

• Avoid impulse buying

• Buy sponges and clean them in the dishwasher

• Buy beverages in containers that can be recycled in your community

• Avoid buying packaged food with disposable dishes

• Wash mildewed plastic shower curtains with bleach and towels instead of tossing out

• Use a canvas or net back to shop

• Use bar soap instead of liquid

• Use electric shavers or razors with replaceable blades

• Use a push mower or mulching power mower

• Use old letters and envelopes as note cards or shopping lists

• Cancel subscriptions to magazines and newspapers you don’t read

• Use rechargeable batteries

• Insulate your home

• Cut down on the amount of junk mail you receive

Reduce toxic waste by purchasing paints, pesticides and other hazardous materials only in the quantities needed – and share leftover amounts