Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

As fall approaches we would like to suggest that we re-evaluate how our actions affect the future of our planet and consider steps we can take to provide a fruitful environment for our children and grandchildren.

REDUCE WASTE

The most effective way to reduce waste is to not create it. Examples of waste reduction

include avoiding single-use products, buying products in recyclable plastic containers,

and buying only what you need.

REUSE

Reuse is taking an item and either using it again for its original purpose or finding a

creative way to salvage it for another purpose. Reusing items helps save more energy

and natural resources than recycling.



Examples include using single-sided printed paper for scratch pads, using cloth

napkins, rechargeable batteries, and bringing reusable shopping bags to the store.

RECYCLE

Recycling waste involves taking an item and changing it, often through a manufacturing process, so it can be used to create new materials and items.

Recycling is also a great way to prevent pollution, reduce energy use, and reduce

greenhouse gas emissions caused by harvesting new raw materials. There are several

ways you can recycle.

Buy products made from recycled materials. Buy products that can be recycled or are

packaged in recyclable materials. Recyclable materials include many kinds of glass,

paper, cardboard, metal, plastic, tires, batteries, and electronics.

Composting your food and yard waste helps save our environment. Compost is a natural fertilizer that can be used to feed your flowers and vegetable garden and improve the soil around trees and shrubs.

Originally written for the Eco-Judaism Committee of Ohef Sholom Temple for Tu Bishvat. This holiday, the celebration of the New Year of Trees, marks the turning point from the bitterness of winter to the hint of spring.