Why it’s so Important to Reduce Waste
When it comes to waste, most of us know the basics of separating our recyclables from general waste and putting out the correct bin on bin day. However, less of us stop to think about where our waste is going and the impact of waste on the environment.
Recycling is probably the easiest way to feel like you are being environmentally-conscious about waste management, and it is certainly beneficial, but did you know that reducing waste is equally as important in creating a sustainable future for generations to come?
Australia is currently facing a potential waste crisis as we continue to run out of landfills yet continue to send more than 6.2 million tonnes of organic waste to landfills each year. So while recycling should definitely be encouraged, we should also look to other options like reusing and reducing the amount of waste to begin with.
Reducing waste can be as simple as making the choice to use a keep-cup for your morning coffee and choosing to avoid purchasing bottled water. It may not seem like a huge move towards better waste management, but if everyone became more aware of how much waste they are producing, collectively we may begin to have a positive impact on our planet and its future.
Financial and Social Impact
There are many reasons why recycling and reducing waste is important. While environmental reasons are often talked about the most, reducing waste can also have a positive effect on your finances as well as a positive social impact by creating more jobs for people in industries developed to recycle goods. By purchasing only what you really need or reusing items, you can also save money through proper waste awareness.
Conserving Landfill Space
One of the bigger reasons to reduce waste is to conserve space in our landfills and reduce the need to build more landfills which take up valuable space and are a source of air and water pollution.
Conserving Resources
By reducing our waste, we are also conserving our resources. Resources like aluminium, petroleum and trees are all used to make new materials such as cans, plastic bags and paper packaging.
Saving Energy
Less energy is used to recycle materials opposed to creating new materials. The manufacturing of consumer goods is a process that consumes a lot of energy, so by limiting the amount of new resources required, a large amount of energy can be saved.
A safer future
The process of mining, refining and manufacturing is responsible for emitting dangerous greenhouse gas emissions which is damaging to the environment. By recycling, reusing and reducing the amount of waste we have, we are helping to build a more sustainable future for our children and grandchildren. We only have a limited amount of natural resources on this planet and a limited capacity to process waste, so it’s important to do our part each day toward a better future.
For more information on waste management solutions for government, business and households, contact Solo Resource Recovery today to see how we can help manage your waste.
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