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Source Reduction
Source reduction and recycling are the cornerstones of all successful waste reduction programs. Source reduction involves changing the way products are designed, purchased or used to reduce the amount of toxicity or unnecessary packaging of a product before it becomes municipal solid waste. Reusing materials also prevents waste. There are many options that individuals may use to practice source reduction in the office.
When purchasing supplies for the office, ask the following:
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Is there another option other than buying new products?
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Are there old file folders that may be reused?
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Is surplus furniture available from a warehouse?
Ideally the products you can purchase are made from recycled materials, have limited packaging, and are concentrated. Yet, this is not a perfect world. We must make special efforts to seek out and purchase environmentally sound products.
If you do make purchases for your office, purchase materials in bulk that are environment-friendly. Note the amount of packaging, recycled content, and efficiency of use (will this last as long as another product?).
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