Waste is everything we throw away. Waste can come from things that we buy (shopping), inefficiencies in how we use energy (utilities) and emissions produced from transporting ourselves (mobility).

Relationship to the four root causes: When we put things into the landfill, we add to an ongoing demand for more land to handle our waste (landfills). This contributes to a root cause of un-sustainability, because natural systems may be damaged by new landfills. It can also mean that our waste can possibly leach harmful chemicals and compounds into the land, air and water.

Opportunity: To be careful about the amount and type of waste we create. We can also be careful with the waste we do produce by reusing, recycling and even reducing our overall consumption.

Before throwing something away ask yourself:

Can I reuse this?

Save time and money by reusing a product , or, fixing it, to stop something from heading to the landfill?

If I can’t use this, can someone else?

One person’s trash is another’s treasure. Consider having a co-op exchange of clothing or other household items. Or hold a community garage sale, take things to your local thrift store or advertise to sell or giveaway things your co-op cannot use. Check out Freecycle in your area.

Can I recycle this?

It is amazing how many things can be recycled; even electronics and tires. Instead of putting something in the landfill, you may well be able to recycle all or part of your waste, creating value as your garbage becomes something new.

Even if I’ve already produced it, can I still reduce my waste?

Do you have a compost bin? You can process many food scraps, cardboard and even some fabrics in your co-op compost or patio worm composter. This diverts waste from the landfill, reduces greenhouse gas emissions associated with decomposing waste and creates free fertilizer for your flowers and vegetables. Find out how to compost.

What happens when you use these questions and change your co-op’s household decisions? Let’s take a walk through your co-op and see…