A Hierarchy for Reducing Waste

The "5 Rs" provide a framework for minimizing waste, ordered by environmental preference:

1. Refuse: Don't accept things you don't need (e.g., freebies, single-use items like straws or bags).
2. Reduce: Lower your consumption overall. Buy less, choose items with minimal packaging.
3. Reuse: Find new uses for items instead of throwing them away. Use reusable containers, bags, bottles. Repair items. Buy second-hand.
4. Repurpose (Upcycle): Creatively transform an item for a different purpose (e.g., jars for storage).
5. Recycle: Process waste materials to create new products. This is the last resort after trying the other Rs, as it still requires energy and resources.
6. (Sometimes includes a 6th R: Rot - for Composting)