22 Oct 2010, Posted by Amelia Guimarin in Take Action, 0 Comments

Ditch Paper Products!

Tissues. Napkins. Plates. Cups. Bowls. How many paper products do you use and throw away on a daily basis? Paper products comprise a huge portion of needless waste. Many of us justify our use of disposable paper and other products. We think reusable products are unsanitary or too much hassle. We often have a tendency to overlook our wasteful ways, especially at work or a party or camping. But, countless trees are destroyed and literal tons of trash is dumped into landfills to provide for our bad habits. And, switching to reusable options is not that hard.

Go around your house and identify all the paper and other disposable products that could be transitioned to reusable ones. Next, acquire the products you need to replace the disposables. Then, make a commitment to use up your supply of disposables (so as not to waste what you’ve already got!) and do not buy anymore. There are tons of ways to cut out paper products. Once you start, you’ll find more and more disposable items to switch out for reusable ones. Here are some simple suggestions:

Buy some cloth napkins and handkerchiefs, enough for your whole household and guests. You can embroider, paint or even just use a permanent marker to label a few napkins and handkerchiefs for each person.

Do you use paper towels in the kitchen? Do you have old t-shirts or mis-matched socks lying around? Use these and other cloth rags instead of paper towels for nasty spills.

Do you drink coffee, tea or water at work? Do you use a reusable mug or cup? This one is super easy. Just replace the disposable for the reusable. And, if you buy your drinks at a cafe, take your reusable container with you – most places even offer a discount if you do!

The same goes with using plates, bowls and silverware at work or school or really anywhere out of the house. Buy a set of reusable eating utensils and take them with you. There are many fun options for lunch boxes nowadays!