There are many ways in which an individual can contribute to environmental protection and according to the waste management hierarchy, reducing it is one of the first.
The “reduce” waste principle represents the first and most crucial step in the waste management hierarchy because it focuses on reducing waste. The reason is simple: if we reduce the amount of waste, the costs for waste management are lower, there is less need for new landfills and we reduce the carbon emissions needed to produce new products. All this has a positive impact on the environment.
Reducing waste can be achieved by an individual in various ways: by limiting the purchase of unnecessary things, buying sustainable products, using sustainable alternatives and exchanging things, we no longer need for those we do need. Here are some steps you can take to reduce waste:
1. Limit new things purchase
Before you buy something, consider the following:
- do you really need it
- how much will you use the product
- what is the product’s lifetime
- what will you do with it once it is no longer needed or functional?
In addition, always go shopping with a list! Making a list of things before shopping will help you focus on your needs and avoid impulse purchases. Try to become aware of the difference between needs and wants and develop the discipline of sticking to your plan and budget. If you refrain from impulse purchases, you can also save money in the long run.
Instead of buying new things, use what you already have or find alternative solutions.
2. Revive the old shine of forgotten items
Try to restore the old shine to torn, tattered, worn-out items. Old shoes can be embellished by a cobbler, outdated clothes can be remade into new and modern versions and even waste can be used to make new and original items. Search the internet for upcycling ideas and put your hands to work!
Find some suggestions on where you can repair old things in Split -> HERE.
3. Look for local and sustainable
Local products have many benefits for the local community and the environment. Local producers often produce higher quality products because they focus on traditional local tastes and needs and use sustainable raw materials they can find in the surrounding area. In addition, the carbon emissions needed to transport the product are also reduced. Also, shopping locally helps regional economies because the money stays in the community.
Sustainable shopping means buying products and services that are produced with minimal environmental impact and are made from recycled materials or can be recycled. It also means buying products that are produced in ethically and socially responsible conditions, protecting workers and supporting local communities.
When shopping, choose products in larger packages, avoid packaged products and look for locally and sustainably produced goods.
4. Be prepared
A little planning will ease the way to reducing waste in your life. Already have sustainable alternatives such as reusable bags, water and coffee bottles, portable cutlery sets, metal straws, beeswax wraps and mesh fruit and vegetable bags? Then don’t forget to use them!
Make sure these things are always within reach and always keep at least one reusable bag in your bag. For additional inspiration on how to prepare to go shopping, read our article at -> LINK.
5. Love vintage
Vintage goods are any clothing or fashion accessories produced twenty or more years ago and are famous for their uniqueness, quality and historical significance. More and more people recognize the benefits of vintage fashion, so vintage stores (live or online) and events are becoming more popular, allowing people to find unique and timeless pieces.
Buying vintage goods is also a more acceptable alternative to contemporary clothes, as no new garments are produced, which means less environmental impact. Explore where you can find vintage pieces in your area!
6. Change things up
Do not automatically throw away items you no longer need, do not use, or are simply bored with. Try to find a person to give them to – a friend, family member, or even a stranger. There are various groups on social networks for exchanging and giving away items. Join and change!
7. Visit Sunce Swap Fair
Every first Tuesday of the month, the Swap Fair is held in Split at Klub Zona.
We all have many items we no longer need in our homes, even though they are still usable. Often such things are thrown away after seasonal cleaning. This kind of fair provides an opportunity to exchange those items for others that are more useful to us, thus satisfying the need for new things. Don’t forget to follow Sunce’s social pages so you don’t miss the next Swap Fair in Split!
Everyone can contribute to reducing waste generation, and when the contributions of each individual are added together, they can significantly impact the environment. This month, try to achieve at least one of the offered steps and share with us how you’re doing by tagging Sunce on social networks!