Choose products with packaging that can be easily recycled or used for other purposes
Some packaging is so practical or pretty that we can use them for other purposes once the product has been used. However, when that’s not possible, placing the packaging in the recycling bin is an excellent way to give it a second life.
Fewer types of materials for easier recycling
Although most packaging and printed matter are recyclable, packaging made with only one material is easier to recycle. If a packaging item has several components made with different materials, simply separate the parts before placing them in your recycling bin. For example, circulars are much easier to recycle once they’ve been removed from their plastic bag!
Use packaging twice instead of just once
We don’t always realize that many products have packaging that can be reused. For example, reclosable plastic or glass containers could be used to store or preserve other products, or the prettiest among them could easily become a flower vase or water jug.
Did you know that packaging can extend the life of the product and therefore reduce waste?
An English cucumber is a good example. Without packaging, this vegetable stays fresh for only 3 days in the grocery store, while, with the plastic wrap, it remains in excellent condition for about 14 days. Just a little recyclable plastic wrap makes a big difference.