Understanding the 5 R’s of Waste Management

Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rot; the 5 R’s of waste management, that’s a few R’s more than some might remember but times have moved on and so must our understanding. In an on-going drive to reduce rubbish and tackle those pesky greenhouse gasses; the 5 R’s are a helpful reminder for the zero waster on what to consider and where to focus their attention.

Refuse

If you want a more economical and ecological home or business; you first need to consider what you bring in. If it isn’t necessary, then why are you doing so to begin with? Humans are creatures of habit after all.
The most simple and straightforward thing we can all say no to is carrier bags, but it doesn’t stop there you know.

Reduce

Some items you need, there is no escaping that. However, that does not mean you can’t deal with the frequency you get it or reduce the amount of waste it produces.

Be honest and mindful in your purchases, if you need it does your budget allow for something that will last longer? Is there an alternative that has less waste?

A great example here is razors, there are a lot of alternatives out there for men and women that will end up with less plastic at landfill.

Reuse

Naturally, if we are looking to refuse and reduce; one thing we want to be doing as little as possible is replacing. Of course, sometimes this cannot be avoided but often there are options available to repair, donate, sell or even repurpose items.

A little imagination and dedication can go a long way.

Recycle

Cards on the table, the current climate issue is not one that we can recycle our way out of. This is an established fact now, common knowledge, although many have been saying this for years. What’s more is that household recycling is still a little limited and suboptimal if truth be told.

These things are all true.

However, none of this is a reason not to recycle to the best of your ability. Proper sorting, cleaning and managing of recycling does make a massive difference; it not being the only required solution does not mean it isn’t actually required.

If you want to combine reuse and recycling, it’s also worth looking into what upcycling options you have.

Rot

Decomposition has its issues too, this much is true. When rotting we have to be mindful of where and how, sending food waste to the tip to rot is not a great idea. The greenhouse gasses produced are devastating.

Home composting though (whether in the garden or the kitchen) can be fantastically beneficial to yourself and others. Whether you can use the compost yourself or not, there are those who can and will; allowing you to put your waste to good use. It’s worth taking a look online for potential options in your local area.