1. Reduce

Use Only What You Need

Here are some easy ways to reduce the trash created and save natural resources -

• Use fewer grocery bags: Cloth bags can be carried to the grocery store. Plastic or paper bags can be brought back to the grocery store.

• Check it out: Look for and buy products that have less packaging. But if something you really need comes with packaging (like bottles or cardboard boxes), try to reuse or recycle it.

• Water matters: Make an effort to use less water. Figure out how much water you usually use to take a shower by trying the Shower Estimation activity. Then come up with ways to use less water like turning off the shower as you wash your hair. You could also ask your parents to install low-flow showerheads or turn off the water while you brush your teeth.

• Turn it off: Use less electricity so there’s less air pollution. Climb the stairs instead of using the elevator. Turn off the lights, TV, and computer when you’re not using them.

2. Reuse

Great way to make less waste

Be creative and reuse: Find a second use for trash. Use old newspapers to make recycled paper. Use this paper to make cards to write let. Make a junk picture frame out of cardboard, buttons, and other small pieces of trash.

3. Recycle

Whenever possible, give an item a second life

Here are some great ways to recycle:

• Buy recycled products: Ask your family or school to use recycled paper and other products. When you buy recycled products, the message is clear–you want to protect the environment.

• Be helpful: Does your town have a recycling centre? If so, encourage your family and neighbours to recycle. Paper, plastics, aluminium cans, and glass can all be recycled. If your community or school doesn’t have curbside pick-up or a recycling program, write to your elected officials about starting one.