Reuse is very important because the production of new items takes a lot of energy. Why throw away something that someone else can use? Post free items on Craigslist before throwing them away! If you need something, get it used for free or buy it on Craigslist (or ebay, etc.). Also, reuse before recycling because recycling uses energy! Here are some materials that can be easily reused:
-Also, don’t scoff off the idea of ‘dumpster diving’! It is literally shocking how many like new items and construction materials are chocked into the trash every day!
- Save packaging material from packages you receive and reuse them for those that you send – if you do not send out many packages, post it on craigslist because many others do!
- Moving boxes – I can always find these free on Craigslist, and after I’m done I post them again!
- Donate prescription bottles and expired or unneeded medication/medical supplies to local animal shelter clinic. Also, old blankets, towels, pillows, and other bedding can be donated to shelters.
- Use washable cloths on Swiffer mops instead of disposable ones. Dip the cloths in 1 part water, 1 part vinegar – a great natural antimicrobial cleaner.
- Bring reusable bags to the grocery or any store. Plastic takes about 150 years to biodegrade – bring your own bags or shop only at stores that offer paper bags.
- Plastic containers from restaurants. Some restaurants give out re-closable containers that can be washed and reused as plastic tupperware in your home!
- Working on a project around the house, look into construction site dumpsters for wood, nails, pvc pipe and almost every type of material you could imagine! Don’t find what your looking for, literally just ask the workers on site. Sure your bound to run into a jerk here or there but more times than not, they will tell you when what your looking for will be tossed!
If you have other reuse ideas that you would like to see on our website, please email to admin@chatnoir.us!
