BUY PRODUCTS IN THE LARGEST SIZE YOU CAN USE;
AVOID EXCESS PACKAGING
A family of four can save $2,000 a year in the supermarket by
choosing large sizes instead of individual serving sizes. Remember,
ten cents of every shopping dollar is used to pay for packaging.
Small sizes use more packaging for each ounce of product than
larger sizes. So, if you buy large sizes, you save money, reduce
waste, and help the environment. That is a really good buy. Here
are a few good examples, look for others the next time you shop.
Buy cereal in a large box instead of in individual serving sizes.
Buy juice in concentrates and use reuseable containers instead
of single serving packages.
Save money by buying bottled water in a large plastic jug instead
of six packs of 16 ounce bottles. Reuse plastic water bottles.
Buy large packages of sugar and flour.
Avoid the small boxes of raisins and buy the same amount in the
24 ounce box.
BUY PRODUCTS IN CONTAINERS THAT YOU KNOW YOU WILL BE ABLE
TO RECYCLE
It is important to familiarize yourself with your what types of
containers and items can be recycled in your local recycling program.
Once you know what you can recycle, look for products that come
in the containers that you know you will be able to recycle when
the products are all used up. Examples are products in commonly
recycled containers made from aluminum, steel, #1 and #2 plastic,
and glass. Check the Earth 911 Reuse and Recycling Services listings
to see what types of containers/packaging you should look for
in your community.
BUY REUSABLE AND LONG LASTING ITEMS
Products that can be reused are cheaper in the long run than those
you throw away and buy over and over again. Goods that are designed
to last a long time are also cheaper in the long run than those
that wear out quickly. A family can save $1,000 each year buy
buying reusable and long lasting products.
Use rechargeable batteries in toys, flashlights, radios. You can
save $200 a year by using rechargeable batteries instead of disposables
in one cd player used two hours a day.
Use cloth diapers instead of disposable diapers. You'll save $600
per child by using a laundry diaper service instead of disposable
diapers.
Use a real camera instead of disposable ones. If you take 24 pictures
each month you will save $144 each year.
Many families spend over $260 each year on paper towels and napkins.
Switch to cloth napkins, sponges, and cloth towels or wipes.
Use washable plates, cups, and silverware for parties and picnics
instead of disposable products.
Use an electric razor or hand razor with replaceable blades instead
of disposable razors.
Buy high quality/long life tires. They cost less per mile traveled
and reduce the problem of disposing of used tires.
Use a washable commuter mug for your morning coffee and eliminate
a Styrofoam or plastic cup every day.
Bring bags to the market, either cloth ones or your old paper
and plastic ones. Many markets will credit your bill for using
your own bags. When buying only a few items, don't take a bag.
Clean and service your appliances, computers, tools, and cars
so that they will enjoy even longer lives. And, before you replace
them, check to see if they are repairable. Consider sharing equipment
that is used infrequently such as hedge clippers, pruners, fruit
pickers, or chain saws.
