Reuse Before Recycle
What Does This Mean?
Are you familiar with the 3 R’s—Reduce, Reuse, Recycle? Did you know that these three practices are purposefully placed in a specific order? Before recycling an item, if possible, consider extending its lifecycle by reusing it. Even single-use items can be repurposed with a little bit of creativity, which minimizes the resources and energy required in the recycling process. Become a steward of your own belongings through care, repair, and reuse.
What Can You Do Right Now?
YOUR ACTIONS MATTER
- Use torn fabric and clothes as patches to mend other clothes, or cut them into smaller pieces to use as cleaning rags. A single t-shirt can be reused as multiple washable and reusable cleaning rags, replacing countless rolls of paper towels. (Our favorite way to hang onto our favorite raggedy old tees a bit longer).
- Old toothbrushes can be used as scrubbers for hard-to-reach places.
- Give glass a second chance—pasta sauce jars, for instance, can be washed out and used for further storage, water cups, lunch containers or even a portable place to put dog poop bags.
Take Action
Let’s protect and enjoy our natural world together
Get the latest in Leave No Trace eNews in your inbox so you can stay informed and involved.