Shelie Miller is a University of Michigan professor who studies sustainability. She says folks should think of the phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle.” Reduce comes first. That means don’t use more than you need. Reuse should generally come before recycling. That’s because recycling plants spend time, money, energy, water, and effort to turn paper, plastic, and glass into materials that can be used again.
Experts say that refilling and recycling programs aren’t a perfect solution. But when they replace single-use packaging and fit into everyday life, they can help reduce waste.
“Small things do add up,” Dr. Miller says. “And so when you have millions of people who are all doing small things, that really can make a difference.”
Reuse It!
YOU can reuse old packaging too. You may need to wash it first. Here are some ideas:
- Grow seeds in old food containers. Put some small holes in the bottom for drainage.
- Did you make cookies for a friend? Transport them in a cleaned plastic container.
- Save newspaper and pieces of cardboard for kindling to start a campfire. (Always have an adult help with a fire.)
- Decorate toilet paper tubes to turn them into finger puppets or other crafts.
- Store craft supplies or small toys in clear jars.
- Turn a plastic milk jug into a scoop for pet food or the garden. Keep the lid on. Cut off the bottom below the handle. Turn it over to use it.
How else can you reuse old packaging? We want to see your creativity at work. Tell us what you did or send us a photo of your new creation. Email WORLDkidseditor@gwpub.com.
