one more time

The next time you throw something in the trash or the recycling, think if that thing can serve another purpose. Even one more use of a disposable item can save tons and tons of trash.

I started a few years back with zip top freezer bags. I often freeze nuts to extend their life, and found each time we ran out, I threw out the bag. I few days/weeks when we replenished the stock, I would start a new bag. My solution was to not only curb my usage of the bags, but also to re-use the ones for the same items. So now when, when I finish the contents, I roll up the labeled bag and store in freezer door until I need it next. It eventually will need replacing, but the bags you will save will astound you. Re-using also makes you more conscious of "where will this go" after I toss it. An invention of convenience, using these bags in excess can reek havoc on our eco system. There are some that maybe can't get the mileage. The chicken you are storing in the freezer for example. Even after washing, it might not be the best to re-use, BUT you can certainly use that same bag for the marinade. One extra time is better than none.

When you start thinking, the possibilities are endless. Use the last of the bread for today's lunch box, why not use the bread bag as your wrap. Deli or take home containers are perfect for a picnic or storing another days leftovers, and all that junk mail.....before recycling, tear open and use the envelope for scratch paper then recycle it. Once you start it is eco-addicting.

Extending the life of an item by using it just one more time is a simple thing all of us can do to make the world a greener place. What are some of the things you have found to re-use ?