Stand and Shine Magazine Autumn 2015 | Page 19

REDUCE = Using less of something or using products more efficiently. Examples: Stop buying disposable water bottles and instead purchase a sturdy reusable bottle. Don't leave the water on while brushing your teeth. Use less paper products such as paper plates, cups, and utensils. Buy products that use less packaging. Only make or take the amount of food you'll actually eat. Help your parents cancel junk mail that is sent to your home. Plant a garden - this means less products and packaging from the store. Reuse = Using items over and over again instead of throwing them away. Examples: If your clothing gets a tear, fix it instead of throwing them out. Donate unused non-perishable food items to local food banks or shelters. Take reusable shopping bags with you to the mall or grocery store. Instead of buying new school supplies, check and see what you can reuse from home. Borrow or rent decorations for parties, school dances, group dates, etc. Many items like bottle caps, food containers, soda tabs, and more can be reused. Give outgrown clothing to neighbors or friends who could use it. If something breaks, try fixing it before buying a new product. Reuse gift bags and wrapping paper. Recycle = Using materials from old items to make something new. Examples: When purchasing items, look for the recycling symbol on the packaging. Recycle your used school papers, notebooks, folders, assignments, etc. that can't be reused. Many items can be recycled beyond paper and plastic - batteries, electronics, glass, and more. Contact your city to find out where and what can be recycled in your town. 19