Saves
natural resources
Waste is not just created when consumers throw items
away. Throughout the lifecycle of a product from extraction of raw materials
to transportation to processing and manufacturing facilities to manufacture and
use waste is generated. Reusing items or making them with less material
decreases waste dramatically. Ultimately, fewer materials will need to be
recycled, combusted for energy, or landfilled.
Reduces
toxicity of waste
Selecting nonhazardous or less hazardous items is
another important component of source reduction. Using less hazardous
alternatives for certain items (e.g., cleaning products and pesticides),
sharing products that contain hazardous chemicals instead of throwing out
leftovers, reading label directions carefully, and using the smallest amount
necessary are ways to reduce waste toxicity.
Reduces
costs
The benefits of preventing waste go beyond reducing reliance on
other forms of waste disposal. Preventing waste also can mean economic savings
for communities, businesses, organizations, and individual consumers.
- Communities
- Businesses
- Consumers
