Resource Reduction and Reuse
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3 |
Decreases consumption and reduces waste and product purchasing quantities through the implementation of operational strategies |
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1 |
One to two months for the development and implementation of a basic policy for resource consumption |
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1 |
Reusable materials such as shopping bags, mugs, and utensils |
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FAC, SGT |
Source reduction is at the top of the EPA’s hierarchy of waste reduction techniques, because it lessens all impacts of the material life-cycle, including production, sourcing, use, recycling, and waste disposal. Reuse ranks second on EPA’s hierarchy, because reused materials do not become waste or produce environmental impacts associated with recycling processes. Sites should prioritize reduction and reuse strategies above recycling, which diverts waste from landfills and incinerators and reduces the need for virgin materials, but requires energy, money, and other resources. 8
Save a paper cup a day for 40 years and you can save 40 trees, 18 days of energy to power your house, and 816 kg (1,800 lbs) of wood.9
No- and low-cost strategies may include setting printers to default to double-sided printing; using rechargeable batteries; refilling used whiteboard markers and printer cartridges; or providing or requiring reusable rather than disposable bags, coffee mugs, and utensils.
Procurement policies can reduce source consumption and increase reuse, by encouraging the purchase of recycled and reusable products (see Materials: Green Purchasing). Integrated sustainable building operations plans can help posts meet resource conservation goals, improve occupant health, and reduce operational costs.