Research from the United Nations Development Programme have indicated that there are approximately five million people who die on a yearly basis, from a disease related to improper waste disposal, and they say the number is getting larger.
It is evident that the developed countries are those that are making the most waste. For example about three-quarters of a ton of garbage is generated yearly by each individual in the United States.
These reports are backed up by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (aka US EPA). These troubling statistics can be lessened through proper waste management.
Individuals need to recognize that waste management at home is not just about making less trash. It is to a greater extent saving and the protection of the environment.
To start with your approach toward a responsible household waste management program is to begin observing what precisely you are disposing and how much waste is being hauled from your home. By monitoring your garbage habits, you will determine how you can look at your household garbage in other ways. The mantra of waste management is summed up in three simple words; reduce, reuse, recycle.
o Reduce household waste
The purchasing of food in packs can add tremendously to your waste. Always try to buy food that is sold loose such as vegetables and fruits.
Thinking for the long term, you should consider having your home appliances serviced on a regular basis. If they are not working have them repaired. This lessens the chance of having to dispose of the appliances and keeps them from the landfills for a longer time.
o Reuse items
If you have an appliance or other home equipment that is not in use and is still in good condition, operational, you should look at the idea of donating it to charity.
Avoid the use of plastic bags and paper bags by taking a reusable shopping bag or re-purpose everyday items that you normally discard. There are loads of different websites that can offer you some rather unique ideas.
Be sure and purchase reusable over disposable items. Reusable coffee cups and drinking water bottles, should be used rather than the disposable containers. This alone can save a immense amount of waste from being disposed of into landfills.
o Recycle
One of the simplest to recycle is by composting. This way of recycling is beneficial both for your garden and the environment. You may even consider worm farming as a good way to earn extra money and recycle your garbage at the same time.
Recycling centers are situated in nearly every community. Make it a habit to use take advantage of one near your home.
Food is another tremendous source of household trash. How can you trim back on food waste? Simply by buying only the amount you really consume and need. A shopping list is an important tool to prevent impulse purchases. Research has shown that 75% of the people who purchase an item in a grocery store made that decision after they entered the store. A shopping list can help your budget and it will help the environment.
Become a savvy shopper and check your supplies first. Finish up those items that will spoil first. Be aware of what happens to the food you purchase, how much packaging it uses, and its origin, before you buy.
Finally, a mention about the hazardous chemicals found in our homes. The U.S. Government has listed nearly 500 hazardous chemical waste items and how they are properly discarded. Everyday items in our home, such as paint, cleaning supplies, and pesticides contain these chemicals. By switching to organic products, the hassle to go through the extra steps needed to discard of hazardous household materials can be eliminated.
So get the garbage out of your life and out of your home. Make your home a safer and healthier place for both you and your family and help save the environment at the same time.
These household waste management tips not only save the environment, they make your home a safer place for you and your family.