PRECYCLING


Ways to Reduce Waste.........by not creating it

Recycling is only the beginning and we have a long way to go. You can really make an impact by following some of the tips listed here. They don't take much time, but they make a big difference. Why not try some of them today.

Look for products with the least amount of packaging (preferably none)

Store brands often use less packaging (and cost less)

Buy products that come in recycled packaging (and remember to recycle it)

Whenever possible, choose products that are packaged in cardboard, aluminum, steel, or glass - these products are easily recycled

Use cloth napkins, silverware, ceramic mugs, plates, and glasses wherever possible

Buy re-fillable products such as razors and some laundry soaps

Use rechargeable batteries, or better yet, use electric appliances

Buy in bulk or buy the economy size - larger containers mean less packaging. However, do not buy an economy size if you do not plan to use all the contents; otherwise you will be throwing away more than just packaging

(adapted from ODNR factsheets)

Do you want to reduce junk mail?

Send a letter to:

Mail Preference Service
Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512

Ask to be removed from their database of computerized mailing lists. You must include your name and address, as well as the names of others in your household that do not want junk mail.

What about telemarketers?

First, go to the National Do Not Call list that has been established at DoNotCall.gov.

You can also send a letter to this address:

Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 643
Carmel, NY 10512

Again, ask to be removed from the CALL list and added to the DO NOT CALL list in accordance with the Federal Telemarketing Sales Rules (USC 6101). Remember to include your telephone number in you letter.

Other Resources

JunkBusters is a good web site with a lot of information about junk reduction, including telemarketing, junk mail, cookies and spam (junk e-mail):

Recycle your used laser printer, copier and ink jet cartridges at G Toner Cartridge in Salem (330) 337-0093. G Toner even pays for old cartridges (depending on the cartridge). You can also buy recycled (recharged) cartridges from them that work as well as the brand-new OEM cartridges.

If you are looking for ways to reduce paper in your workplace, see 30 Ways to Reduce Paper. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has also developed a Reducing Office Paper Waste fact sheet. This sheet has some office paper facts, the types of office paper that can generally be recycled (note: this varies based on your recycler) and Reducing, Reusing and Recycling office paper, including setting up an office paper recycling program.

You can also look at the District's Introduction to Waste Minimization.

.....More to come.......

If you have any questions please call the District at (330) 627-7311
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