Even though we have heard this old environmental adage for years too often we forget that go in order from most desirable to least.  We also have to remember that this process applies not only to material waste, but also to water waste.  Every year environmental consultants save companies thousands of pounds and dollars simply by informing them on how they can cut back on their waste streams (all of which have an associated cost).  The same logic can be easily applied to households.   

In every decision that we make we must firstly find ways to reduce the amount of unnecessary waste that will have to be recycled (because even recycling requires time, resources and energy).   

What cannot be reduced can often be creatively reused.  For an excellent example of this concept taken to extremes, see the film Garbage Warrior (www.garbagewarrior.com) about an architect who is building beautiful, efficient homes out of natural materials and trash.   

Last, but certainly not least, is recycling.  It is important that we all do our bit and chip in.  Even today with improved knowledge of recycling and access to services, 80% of what is thrown out could be turned into something new.  Recycling: 

• Saves Energy. For example, a recycled aluminium can can be made with 70% less of the materials and energy it takes to make a new one.  This means less stress on resources and fossil fuels and less water and air pollution from industrial production.
• Decreases material going to landfill.  The average American currently creates 5 lbs of garbage (municipal waste) everyday.  UK households produce 30.5 million tonnes per year and still only 17% of which is taken for recycling.  Much of this will go to landfill where it will slowly decompose, some of it taking millions of years to break down.  Pretty disgusting.
• Saves Trees.  More recycled paper of course means less natural growth that needs to be cut down. 

Critically, if accessible recycling options do not exist in your community, get proactive and phone up your local representatives to see what can be done.    

A wasteful society and economy is ultimately uncreative one.  Reducing, reusing and recycling waste is a low cost, low effort way to make a difference fast.