Rethink Your Waste

• Make Smart Swaps: Avoid single-use items. Choose reusable food containers, washable fabric pouches, and reusable food wraps.
• Be Prepared on the Go: Keep a reusable straw and cutlery in your bag for takeout meals.
• Shop Wisely: Avoid single-serving packages and bring reusable grocery bags.
• Ditch Disposable Products: Use wool dryer balls instead of dryer sheets and stock up on washable towels.

• DIY Cleaning Solutions: Create your own cleaning products using common household ingredients.
• Repair Over Replace: Opt to repair items instead of throwing them away.
• Rent or Borrow Wisely: Rent items you rarely use instead of purchasing them.

• Donate or Sell Before Discarding: Consider donating or selling old items instead of throwing them away.
• Explore Online Platforms: Use platforms like Freecycle, Facebook Marketplace, Kijiji, Swapsity, or Varagesale to buy and sell used items.
• Donate Responsibly: Contact organizations beforehand to find out what items they accept. Some options include Diabetes Canada, Habitat for Humanity ReStore, and Salvation Army Thrift Store.
• Embrace Second-Hand Shopping: Shop at second-hand clothing stores or host clothing swaps with friends.
• Host a Yard Sale: Organize a yard sale to declutter while engaging with your community.
• Find Donation Boxes Nearby: Use the National Association for Charitable Textile Recycling's Donation Site Locator to find donation boxes near you.

• Plan Your Meals Wisely: Reduce food waste by practicing proper meal planning.
• Enjoy What You Buy: Make an effort to eat what you purchase.
• Store Food Properly: Keep perishables in the right conditions to extend their shelf life.
• Get Creative with Leftovers: Transform leftovers into new meals.
• Compost or Dispose Responsibly: Compost food scraps or place them in your green bin.

Backyard composting is an easy and inexpensive way to provide essential nutrients to your lawn and garden, plus you will reduce your household waste. Visit the Region of Durham for more information.