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ecoGem for January 2008: The Fourth “R”

The message is everywhere: “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” We see the three “R’s” on billboards, television commercials, and magazine ads and we learn about them in our schools. This campaign has made us aware of our need to reduce waste and lower the environmental costs of producing goods and packaging from new materials.

At ecoChai, we’ve been sharing strategies for practicing the three “R’s” at home and work.We also learned about a fourth “R,” “Rebuy,” that is critical to the success of any recycling program. “Rebuy,” refers to the practice of purchasing recycled goods and products. Why is it so important? Collection agencies need a market for their recyclable materials. Consequently, there needs to be a demand for products made from them.

It’s easy to add the fourth “R” to your recycling program: 1) Donate goods that you don’t need any more. 2) Check out used goods stores or online shops when you need baby clothing, toys, bicycles, tools, furniture or clothing (just to name a few). 3) Purchase recycled packaging materials and paper products.

Want to learn more about recycling?