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Statistics from the United Nations Development Programme has stated that there are nearly five million people who die on a yearly basis, from diseases related to improper waste disposal, and they say the number is increasing. It goes without saying that the developed countries are the ones that are generating the most waste. For example, about three-quarters of a ton of garbage is generated annually by each person in the United States. These statistics are backed up by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (aka US EPA). These disturbing statistics can be minimized through proper waste management.
People must begin to realize that waste management in the home is not just about producing less trash. It is more about saving and protecting the environment. Your first step towards a responsible household waste management program is to begin monitoring what exactly you are throwing away and how much wastes is being hauled from your home. By monitoring your trash habits, you will learn how you can deal with your household waste in other ways. The mantra of waste management is summed up in three simple words; reduce, reuse, recycle.
• Reduce household waste
The purchasing of food in packs can add considerably to your waste. Always try to buy food that is sold loose such as vegetables and fruits. Thinking long term, you should have your home appliances serviced on a regular basis. If they are broken have them repaired. This will avoid having to throw the appliances away and keeps them out of the landfills for a longer period.
•Reuse items
If you have an appliance or other home equipment that you are not using and is still working , you should consider donating it to charity. Avoid the use of plastic bags and paper bags by bringing a reusable shopping bag to the grocery store when you shop. Become creative on how you can learn to reuse or repurpose common items that you normally discard. There are many different websites that offer you some rather creative ideas. Be sure and purchase reusable over disposable items. Reusable coffee cups and drinking water bottles, should be used rather than the disposable containers. This alone can save a tremendous amount of trash from being put into landfills.
• Recycle
One of the best ways to recycle is by composting. This method of recycling is beneficial both for your garden and the environment. You may even consider worm farming s as a way to earn extra income and recycle your waste at the same time. Recycling centers are located in nearly every community. Make it a habit to use one near your home.
Food is another huge source of household waste. How can you cut down on food waste? Simply by purchasing only what you really consume and need. A shopping list is a vital tool to prevent impulse buying. Studies have shown that 75% of the people who make a purchase in a grocery store made that decision after they entered the store. A shopping list will help your budget and it will help the environment. Become a smart shopper and check your supplies first. Use up those items that will spoil first. Be aware of what happens to the food you purchase, how much packaging hit has, and where it is coming from, before you buy.
Finally, a discussion on the hazardous chemicals found in our home. The U.S. Government has listed nearly 500 hazardous waste products and how they should be discarded. Everyday items in our homes, such as paint, cleaning supplies, and pesticides contain these chemicals. By using organic products, the need to go through the extra steps needed to dispose of hazardous household materials can be eliminated.
These household waste management tips not only save the environment, they make your home a safer place for you and your family.
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