\ Reduce
Reducing simply means to use less! Buy fewer things so that you have less to waste. Buy durable, long lasting products, rather than products you will have to constantly re-buy. For example, instead of buying a box of multiple juice boxes, but one big carton of juice and use a thermos to take it with you. We can also reduce our energy consumption, by unplugging electronics when we're not using them, or only turning on the lights when we have to. Not only does this save on consumption and waste, but it also saves money out of your pocket!
\ Reuse
Before you throw something away, ask yourself if you can use it again. If you accidentally mess up on a sheet of paper, can you use the other side? If something stops working, or you don't want something anymore, explore other options. Can it be repaired? Can someone else make use of it? Reusing items is a great way to cut down on consumption and help someone else!
\ Recycle
Recycling is when we use reuse materials or objects, in original or changed forms, rather than discarding them as waste. If we discarded all the items we use as waste, the earth would start to fill up with waste, and would become unhealthy and unlivable. Items we use on a daily basis, such as cans, bottles and paper, can all be recycled. The materials can be broken down and re-created into something new!
Protecting our resources
When you make the effort to recycle, you play a part in protecting our earth. If everyone puts forth a little effort, imagine how much waste is being kept from polluting our earth, and how much less we could consume! On the down side, if we choose not to do anything, there are consequences.
Our oceans can become polluted and full of waste. This affects the water we drink and our ocean and sea life.
- What we don't recycle, ends up in landfills. Decomposing trash releases gas into the atmosphere, that is bad for the earth and our lungs.
Living Smart
There are thousands, if not millions, of items being made out of recycled materials. We are also discovering new fuel sources faster than ever. By consuming earth friendly products, you are saying that you are ready for change and you will not aid in buying products that aren't friendly to the environment!
This modern house in Boston is made partly out of reused and recycled construction materials:

This New York based company makes their bags using only recycled products.

Top 5 Reasons to Live Eco-Friendly
- 1. Recycling saves trees.
- 2. An eco-friendly lifestyle helps control global warming.
- 3. To protect our wildlife.
- 4. You can save money and help promote a better economy.
- 5. Reducing wasteful energy and products makes our air and earth healthier.