Managing waste at home doesn’t have to be difficult or overwhelming. By making a few simple changes, you can reduce the amount of trash your household generates, save money, and help protect the environment. Whether you’re new to sustainable living or just looking for more tips, there are plenty of easy ways to minimize waste, from recycling properly to switching to reusable products. Small adjustments in our daily routines can lead to big improvements over time. What are some ways you can create a greener, less wasteful home? We’re glad you asked!

Recycle Correctly

Recycling is one of the most effective ways to reduce waste, but it’s important to do it correctly. Many households try to recycle but often end up “wish-cycling” — putting items in the recycling bin without knowing if they’re actually recyclable. This can contaminate entire batches of recyclables, making them unusable.

To recycle properly:

• Know your local recycling guidelines: Different areas accept different materials, so it’s essential to check your local rules for recycling. Items like cardboard, glass bottles, aluminum cans, and certain plastics are usually recyclable, but check for specific codes or symbols to ensure compliance.
• Rinse containers: Clean food and drink containers before recycling to prevent contamination.
• Avoid plastic bags in recycling bins: Plastic bags can jam machinery at recycling facilities. Instead, drop them off at designated collection points, often found at grocery stores.

By taking a few extra seconds to recycle correctly, you can help ensure that more materials are repurposed rather than ending up in landfills.

Mountain Disposal does not currently offer recycling services. However, we encourage you to visit our website to learn more about Greenhorn Valley recycling information.

Use Reusable Products

One of the best ways to cut down on waste is by reducing the need for disposable items. Switching to reusable products can significantly lower the amount of trash generated by your household.

• • Reusable shopping bags: Instead of relying on plastic or paper bags, invest in sturdy reusable bags. Keep them in your car or by the door so you never forget to bring them with you when shopping.
  • Reusable water bottles and coffee cups: Plastic water bottles and disposable coffee cups contribute greatly to waste. A reusable bottle or cup reduces single-use plastics and can keep your drink at the desired temperature longer.
  • Cloth napkins and towels: Replace paper napkins and towels with washable cloth alternatives. They’re more durable, cost-effective over time, and better for the environment.
  • Reusable food storage: Instead of using plastic wrap or sandwich bags, opt for reusable containers or beeswax wraps to store leftovers or pack lunches.

• Reusable coffee pods: Single use coffee pods have exploded in popularity the last several years. But all of those one-time use coffee pods are adding up in our landfills! Purchase reusable coffee pods. You will have to fill them yourself with your coffee grounds, but washing them and reusing them can help reduce waste.

Making these small shifts in your daily habits can drastically cut down on waste, reduce your reliance on single-use products, and even save you money over time.

Compost Food Scraps

Food scraps are a large contributor to household waste, but instead of tossing them in the trash, consider composting. Composting is an easy way to turn organic waste into nutrient-rich soil that can be used in your garden or landscaping.

• Set up a compost bin: You don’t need a large yard to start composting. Small compost bins can easily fit under the kitchen sink or on a balcony. Many cities also offer composting services or community drop-off points if you don’t have space for a personal bin.
• Compostable items: Most fruit and vegetable scraps, eggshells, coffee grounds, and even paper towels can be composted. However, avoid composting meat, dairy, and oily foods, as they can attract pests and take longer to break down.
• Benefits of composting: Composting reduces the amount of waste going to landfills, cuts down on methane emissions, and returns valuable nutrients back to the soil.

By composting, you not only reduce household waste but also contribute to healthier gardens and a more sustainable environment.

Reduce Paper Products

Paper products like napkins, paper towels, tissues, and even toilet paper can quickly add up in household waste. Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce paper consumption without sacrificing convenience.

• Digital alternatives: Go paperless where possible. Sign up for digital bills, bank statements, and receipts to cut down on paper clutter. Use apps for note-taking and calendars to avoid printing.
• Reduce paper towel and napkin usage: Opt for reusable cloth towels for cleaning and drying  instead of disposable paper towels. Keep a set of rags on hand for spills or messes. And when it comes to napkin use, use reusable cloth napkins.
• Choose eco-friendly paper products: When you do use paper, choose products made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced paper. Many brands now offer toilet paper and paper towels made from recycled content.

By reducing the use of disposable paper products, you can lower your household waste and conserve natural resources.

Decrease Packaging Waste

Packaging is a significant source of household waste, much of which is unnecessary or excessive. From food containers to product packaging, it can add up quickly. Here are some ways to cut down on packaging waste:

• Buy in bulk: Purchasing items in bulk reduces the amount of packaging used, especially for products like grains, pasta, and snacks. Bring your own containers or bags when shopping at stores that offer bulk-buying options.
• Choose minimal packaging: Opt for products with minimal or eco-friendly packaging, such as those made from recycled materials or biodegradable options.
• DIY products: Make your own household cleaners, beauty products, or food items to avoid packaging altogether. For example, homemade cleaning solutions stored in reusable spray bottles can save a lot of plastic.

Reducing packaging waste not only helps the environment but also encourages companies to consider more sustainable packaging options.

Managing household waste effectively starts with small, manageable changes in daily habits. Waste reduction is a collective responsibility, and when each household does its part, we can make a substantial positive impact on the environment. Start today by adopting these simple waste management tips and enjoy the benefits of a more eco-friendly home.