Action Town - Ollie Saves the Planet, USA - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Rethink

REDUCE

Buying in bulk is a great way to reduce packaging

Waste prevention, also known as source reduction, means using less material to get a job done. Waste prevention methods aim to stop waste being created in the first place.

At the Division of Recycling & Litter Prevention, we are currently working with businesses and organizations to help them modify their current waste management practices. We aim to reduce the amount of waste generated by changing the design, manufacture, purchase, and use of materials and products.

CASE STUDY: Belmont Correctional Institution

The Belmont Correctional Institution is a great example of how implementing simple waste reduction measures can help the environment and save money at the same time.

Using email can reduce paper use

The institution increased the use of email - to cut down on the amount of communication done on paper - and got rid of copiers that were being under-used. Reductions in paper and toner use, as well as reduced copy charges, saved an impressive $4,284 in 2002. In 2003, further savings were made by not renewing the rental contract on an under-used copier, resulting in total savings of over $10,000.

The institution continues to increase the use of email and will also increase staff training to ensure proper and efficient use of office equipment.

CASE STUDY: Mahoning County Solid Waste District

Reducing waste saves landfill space

The Mahoning County Solid Waste District has made great strides in reducing waste. The District worked closely with the Youngstown State University Center for Engineering and Research Exchange to encourage and assist business and industries in Mahoning County to adopt waste reduction and recycling programs.

Strategies included providing tips on modifying purchasing or reuse policies, conducting waste audits, circulating waste reduction awareness materials and modifying solid waste management practices.

The efforts of the Mahoning Solid Waste District have helped reduce waste in eight service facilities, 110 schools, 69 industries and 34 public institutions, including hospitals, libraries and prisons. In 2003, these businesses and industries together reduced their waste by 9,362 tons – a 66.6% reduction from the previous year.

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