Image via Pexels.comIt's national reuse month in Ireland.
October is national reuse month in Ireland, 31 days where the focus turns to valuing our stuff, by using and reusing it for as long and as often as possible.
Why is this important? Well simply put, it avoids the need to extract raw materials, manufacture and distribute new stuff, and avoids waste thereby cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions.
The reuse message is the centerpiece of the “reduce, reuse and recycle” and here are five ways you can become an expert reuser.
1. Only buy reusable products
Do away with single use items, and focus on purchasing things that are refillable.
- Use washable cloth napkins, sponges, and dish cloths.
- Use Rechargeable Batteries.
- Take only what you need if you have to use single use items, such as tissues.
2. Maintain and fix what you already own.
Not only will this save you money, but it limits the amount of resources you're using up.
- With more expensive items like computers, TVs and washing machines, do the research into which are the most energy efficient and durable models.
- When an appliance does break down, see if you can have it repaired.
- Mend clothing and repair shoes, boots, handbags, and luggage whenever possible.
3. Keep your bags for life in easy to remember places.
This one relies a lot on memory, but making sure you have your bag for life with you when you need it is a big one - as plastic bags in particular take over 1000 years to decompose.
- Keep your bags for life by the front door or in your car boot so you always have them when you go shopping.
- If you do have single use plastic bags, you can use them again.
- Pack lunches in a reusable bag with reusable food and drink containers.
- Reuse containers and other materials for storage and crafts.
- Reuse single-sided printed pages for scratch paper.
- Find new homes for clothing and linens, or use them for rags, patchwork, and other projects.
4. Borrow, Rent, and Share!
How many of use have sheds full of tools and appliances we only use once in a blue moon? If your doing some DIY work and need something you don't have, ask around to see if a friend or family member can help you out.
This goes for:
- Power tools, ladders, and garden tillers
- Formal wear
- Party decorations and supplies (tables etc.)
- Audiovisual equipment
5. Sell or Donate Goods
If you have bought more stuff than you're going to need there's always someone else who'll gladly take it!
- Donate or sell items to thrift stores or organizations in need.
- Give used items to family members, neighbors, and the needy.
You can learn more about national reuse month, here.
