A word about Waste

A year ago I started to recycle. I have always been a late bloomer and even though the Recycling Movement began at least 20 years ago I just started last year. To begin, I bought a separate (and large) container and began the new habit of recycling. When the bin is full I bring it over to Deb's house and they recycle it for me. A perfect system.

At the time I didn't realize how much of an environmental impact this would make. I immediately noted that I went from throwing away 6 bags of trash a month to tossing 3 bags of trash. My bags, it should be noted, are actually Meijer plastic grocery bags that my mom saves for me. I stopped buying trash bags several years ago. I was delighted that nearly overnight I had literally cut my production of trash in half!

Two months later I stopped using paper products at home (paper towels and napkins) and then over the summer I methodically preserved food in cans and freezer bags. Again, I had no idea that this would also reduce how much trash is in my home.

I made my last trip to the Farmers Market sometime in October and just a few weeks later I started to cook with all the food that I had put up over the summer.  You see, now when I am cooking I open my homemade jars of sauce and peppers. I am thawing my frozen goods and not throwing anything away. 

Additionally, I practiced not buying plastic last fall. This continues to effect my shopping habits when I am in Meijer. I am more likely to buy anything in cardboard or the item with less packaging. Therefore, if I am using ingredients from the Grocer it is quite likely that I can recycle the package. It is rare for me to toss anything in the trash these days. And I know that if I were to get myself in gear and start a compost pile that I would reduce my waste even more!

It took a few months for me to realize that I was hardly ever taking out the trash anymore. Sometimes I take it out simply because I think it must be time, not because the bag is actually full. In the span of 12 months I reduced my trash output from 6 bags a month to barely 1 bag.

By no means do I think I am doing anything novel. I often think of my grand parents generation for this is how they lived naturally. But back then it wasn't labeled "environmental" it was labeled "sensible, frugal, smart" for they survived the Great Depression, after all.

I would love to hear more tips from anyone out there. What are other/more ways to reduce waste?