The best way to reduce our waste problem is to simply consume less. We don’t really need much of what we buy in the developed world. And if we currently use the resources our grandchildren need to live, it only makes sense that we would drastically cut back on what we buy today. Finally, we can recycle many things and use their raw materials in new ways. Glass, lots of plastic, aluminum cans, cardboard, paper and even electronics can be taken apart, melted down and made into new things.

Use a reusable bottle / cup for on-the-go drinks

Maybe you already have a reusable water bottle, but are you always using it? You can use that reusable bottle, save money and reduce waste. Bringing your own water will also reduce your chances of buying more expensive drinks along the way. This makes the single-use containers they come in obsolete. While most cans and bottles can be recycled, they require a lot of energy to be produced. Smart waste system is a good way to avoid waste

Lower your packaging purchases

Avoiding products that are wrapped in plastic or overpacked in boxes and bags is a great way to reduce waste. You also save energy and natural resources.

• Avoid packaging if possible. For example, use your own reusable bag or container.

• Use products you already have for household chores. Do not use single use cleaners.

• Buy large, value-priced products instead of individually packaged items. Laundry soap, shampoo, dish soap, dry pet food, cat litter, and other non-perishable items are good examples. For food, buy the largest size you can use before it spoils.

Avoid disposable items

Disposable items have been sold to us with ease. In reality, they create a huge mess that someone will have to clean up at some point. Is that really the kind of legacy we want to leave for the children and grandchildren of our generation? And if we add up the actual financial cost of the perceived convenience, how many hours do we work for it? Instead, why not take the time to dine in instead of takeout? This means no plastic bags, no Styrofoam containers, no plastic cutlery, no small packs of spices, no to-go cups and no straws. We can avoid using disposable Styrofoam or plastic plates at home. We can refuse to contribute to the pollution of plastic bags by bringing our own reusable bags.