Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Representing the EPA's strategic plan to minimize waste and the costs of disposal, the Three R's are listed in order of priority. Of course, there is a strong emphasis on recycling; however, by reducing the amount of materials used to make a product, there is ultimately less material to recycle. And if we think smart about certain products, we may be able to reuse them for an additional purpose. In an effort to preserve our environment and our natural resources, together we can all make a difference by remembering the Three R's. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.
Reduce.
This may mean that companies use less material in the packaging
of their products. It may also mean taking fewer trips in
our cars, or going to multiple places in one trip.
Reuse.
This might be finding a creative way to use an empty soda
bottle or even an old piece of furniture. Using a box over
and over for mailing would be another way to reuse.
Recycling.
This is the process of retrieving materials from products
and using them to help create new products.