How do you reduce your trash output?

Reducing trash output can be as simple as changing a few habits or taking a few small steps, such as reducing mail and developing a habit of recycling. Families and individuals alike can adopt these practices to reduce the amount of garbage they produce.

• Reduce Mail

Cutting down on the amount of paper mail one throws away can involve opting out of receiving credit card solicitations, asking banks for paperless statements. Resources such as the National Do Not Mail List may help.

• Focus on Product Packaging

A lot of garbage output comes from excessive product packaging. Opting to purchase bulk packaged items rather than individually packaged products is a step in the right direction.

• Recycle When Possible

Recyclables should be sorted properly to ensure they will go to the recycling center rather than the landfill. Researching local recycling options may make it possible to go further than the standard glass, paper, metal and plastic recyclables.

• Start Composting

Reusing viable compost items such as food scraps and lawn trimmings to make a healthy soil will help cut down on the amount of stuff that gets shipped off to the landfill.

• Think Twice Before Buying

Owning less stuff is one way to reduce garbage output. Considering whether you really need to buy something like a cheap plastic kitchen tool that will likely break and get tossed can help cut down on waste.