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Reduce always comes first because reducing what we use and what we waste means using fewer natural resources and less energy. Less waste also means less land put aside for burying waste in landfills. Ways to reduce waste include purchasing goods that use less packaging, sharing or renting things (like carpet cleaners) that aren't needed regularly instead of buying them, and buying household cleansers that do not contain hazardous ingredients.
Reuse comes second because reusing items—using them twice or many times instead of just once—keeps them from becoming waste. Some ideas for reuse include using glass or plastic jars after they're empty, or taking a cloth sack to the store when you shop (you don't need a bag, and you can use the sack again the next time).
Here at the school, many of the kids bring their lunches in plastic containers, which they can wash and use over and over again, instead of wrapping their food in plastic and paper that they throw away every day.
Recycle comes third, but not last. Recycling—converting used items back into raw materials, then making new products with them—conserves our valuable natural resources and reduces the need to put as much waste into our landfills. Many schools have started recycling programs that help raise money for needed items. And many items they buy can be made from recycled materials—such as paper, notebooks, playground equipment, furniture, and carpet.
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