Waste
Video credits: ACCIONA, published on Apr 19, 2018
Some sources argue the 3R principle (reduce, reuse, recycle), some mention the 5R principle (refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, recycle), or even the 7R principles (refuse, reduce, repurpose, reuse, recycle, rot, rethink). This is because recycling systems are not always available in each country and may not always work. Richer countries often export their recyclable waste to other countries, and this can end up in landfill or on the side of roads. Therefore recycling is seen as the last step in the process, making it something to avoid and only do as a last resort.Â
Think about what you have learnt from this video.
Do! Take a look around. Grab the first three objects you see or the ones that are closest to you. Think about their lifespan and their usage. How long have you had them? How often do you use them? How long will they last? What will you do with them when you won’t need them or won’t be able to use them anymore? If you will throw them away, do you know where they will end up?
Reflect on these questions on your own. Now think of at least 3 alternatives or best practice examples how people could reduce waste or improve their individual daily waste management practices. Write down your answers in the comments.
Educate! When we are in the shop, faced with a wide variety of products shipped there for us to choose and consume, try implement the 3R, 5R, or 7R principles! Talk to the other shoppers in the store, what do they base their choices on?
