Waste Reduction

Waste reduction (or prevention) is the preferred approach to waste management because waste that never gets created doesn't have any associated waste management costs.

An example of waste reduction is reducing unnecessary packaging from manufactured products and produce. If this excess packaging were never produced in the first place, no one would have to be concerned with the cost and effort of collecting the excess packaging, separating it for recycling, breaking it down, transporting it to manufacturers, and then integrating the recycled materials back into the manufacturing process.

Waste reduction also helps conserve resources for future generations and contributes to a cleaner environment. Find out more about reducing waste through the following CIWMB sites.

 

General Information

Waste Prevention World. A site about doing more with less, with information for individuals, businesses, and governments on a wide range of waste reduction topics.

Extended Producer Responsibility and Stewardship. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a strategy to place a shared responsibility for end-of-life product management on the producers, and all entities involved in the product chain, instead of the general public; while encouraging product design changes that minimize a negative impact on human health and the environment at every stage of the product's lifecycle.

Waste Reduction/Recycling Coordinator Information and Resources. Materials and assistance to help you set up and operate a successful waste reduction program in your business, office, or locality.

 

Specific Materials

Packaging Waste Reduction. Every year Californians generate 66 million tons of solid waste, of which approximately one third is packaging. Because landfill space is limited, retailers and manufacturers need to work together to reduce packaging waste.

Paper Waste Prevention. Prevention is the most environmentally preferable means to reduce paper waste. Printing paper on both sides of the sheet—rather than on one side—is a classic example of paper waste prevention, as it can reduce the need for paper by up to 50 percent. Paper waste prevention reduces the environmental impacts associated with both paper manufacture (including the demands on our forest resources) and paper recycling.

 

Specific Venues

Business Waste Reduction. Preventing waste conserves resources, prevents pollution, and saves money. It's just good business sense!

Waste Prevention at Home. Information on how you can reduce waste at home, including junk mail, holiday waste, and yard/garden waste.

School Waste Reduction and Recycling. Schools can help communities reduce their waste, while saving money and teaching kids valuable lessons.