But what are the 4Rs ?
The 4Rs are a simple way of reminding us how we can make a difference. Each step provides us with a positively different way of considering what we use and how we dispose of waste.
Every step has a clear focus on educating us. It helps us to identify the changes we can make. As such, used well the importance of the 4Rs is born out as an extremely important tool in our fight for a better planet.
We all have the right to make a choice and refuse wasteful and polluting products. For too long, we have been buying products that have been packaged in a way that can cause environmental harm once we dispose of the plastic wraps, boxes, and cartons.
We can choose to refuse to buy items that contain single-use plastics or items that are individually packaged. Single-use plastic bags are a big problem and one of the reasons why our oceans and nature are suffering. Commonly, these plastics cannot be recycled easily. They are therefore a problem for the environment.
Say No to single-use plastic !
“ The first step towards understanding the importance of the 4Rs and making a difference is to Refuse, Doing so decreases demand. Subsequently, the manufacturers and producers have to then think about less wasteful and sustainable alternatives. ”
If we really want to reduce waste then we should think about how we can make that happen. If we want to generate less waste then we need to purchase less. This requires consumers to be more mindful when they do make a purchase.
It’s a question of sizing your purchases in relation to your real needs.
The object you want, do you really need it ?
...
Will you use it many times ?
Example of inexpensive clothing:
While cheap clothing is perfect for those who cannot afford more expensive items, it is important to consider how cost-effective they are. If they need replacing in several months, then it might be worth paying more, Right ?
If Not, there are more alternatives like buying second-hand from thrift shops
“It’s not just about waste either. Think to reduce the amount of water and energy we waste daily on our houses, workplaces, schools…etc. So the next step in realizing the importance of the 4Rs is reducing waste and is all about making a conscious effort to look at the bigger picture. We are all too quick to throw things away without a single thought for what happens to waste. To reduce waste, we need to reduce what we buy and use and consider limiting ourselves to essentials. It is as simple as that.”
Reducing waste is not just about reducing what you purchase. It is about considering what you can reuse. This essentially means not putting it in the waste but using it for another purpose.
This is about being innovative and forward-thinking
For example:
Place an open jar or bowl of dried, used coffee grounds in your refrigerator or freezer to neutralize odors.
Glass jars can be cleaned and reused to store the spices , jewelry, food…etc.
“ One of the biggest ways of reusing items is through upcycling. People are now becoming more and more creative and so, it is now possible to take tired, worn items and upcycle them into beautiful pieces that can be reused. It is this kind of clever thinking that can make a difference. ”
When it comes to waste management, recycling items is the final option and the final R as we look at the importance of the 4Rs. Do make sure that you sort and clean all items before recycling to increase the likelihood they actually do in fact get recycled.
The last resort...
For example:
Bottle tops can become car batteries and reusable plastic bags while plastic containers can be turned into toys
“The possibilities are almost endless and recycling technology is constantly improving and that is a real positive in our quest to reduce waste.”
