The Five Re’s-August 2007
Recycle
There are numerous products that are now made with recycled products. Look for recycled pens, notebooks,
Reduce
Reduce the number of plastic baggies, wrap, and lunch bags that you use by packing lunches in reusable glass or plastic storage containers. For school, pack in a bento box.
Reuse
Reuse your old folders and binders. Paper that had only one side written on it can be reused; you can cut it up and re-staple it to make a notebook.
Instead of countless plastic pens, invest in a refillable fountain pen and a bottle of ink (not cartridges). Result - less plastic, nicer writing and people tend not to walk away with your pen.
Rethink
Rethink your shopping trips. Plan ahead and make a list to purchase those things that are truly needed. Plan one larger shopping trip and the amount of money that will be spent (lots of small ones = more money spent).
Repurpose
Give old socks, t-shirts, towels a new purpose. These worn out items still have a lot of life left in them. Cut socks or shirts to size and keep handy for cleaning up spills, washing windows, or dusting. Old towels work great for drying off the dog, cat, child, or car!