Today we’re talking about the next R: Reuse.
Reusing items even one time significantly reduces the amount of trash we produce. Try looking at the things you automatically toss in the trash or recycling as see if you could reuse or repurpose it.
Here are some things Terra routinely reuses.
*Zip Top Baggies–If it only has veggies, crackers, etc., rinse, allow to dry completely and reuse.
*Bread Bags/Produce Bags–Use instead of a baggie.
*Glass Jars–Reuse as food containers for fridge or pantry. Google how to remove labels and pickle smell!
*Copy Paper–Put paper (print side up) back into your copier and print on the back for non-critical jobs.
*Cracker/Cereal Boxes–Store magazines or cut up and use large cardboard pieces for many projects.
*Old Towels/Tee Shirts–Use in place of paper towels.
*Clam Shell-Type Bakery or Produce Containers–Use to corral toys, craft supplies, harvesting in garden.
*Plastic Tablecloth–Use as a drop cloth under messy projects or pile weeds on it as you work in the yard.
*Paper Milk Cartons–Rinse and cut down to use for storage or start seedlings in next spring.
*Styrofoam Cup–I know we are trying to refuse these, but even Terra accidently gets served something in one occasionally. When she does, she takes it home to rinse and reuse for seedlings next year.
*Gift Bags, Ribbon, Greeting Cards–The bags and ribbon are self-evident. Cut the fronts off pretty cards and reuse as gift tags or glue on leftover cardstock to make a new card.
The list goes on! We need to look at what we toss out with new eyes, whether it’s going in trash or recycling. Each time you start to throw it out, ask if you could use it one more time!