Everything in this world is connected, but sometimes the choices we make don’t support that fact. We don’t think about growing landfills. We don’t consider our effect on the natural environment around us.

By reducing waste, we lessen the negative impact to agriculture and fresh water. With less landfill waste that produces natural gasses due to the decay of materials, we protect endangered species.

For those and many more reasons, we need to drastically reduce waste. Recycling is smart, too, but reducing waste is how we can make the greatest impact.

Below are seven easy steps to reduce waste:

  1. Think before you print. Reducing your printing means using less paper and fewer toner cartridges. Next time you are ready to hit the print button, ask yourself if you really need it in paper form or if saving it electronically would be a better choice.
  2. Buy in bulk. A bulk purchase typically requires less packaging than buying several individual products – and it often has a lower cost. A similar option to cut down waste is to buy products that offer refills.
  3. Reduce junk mail. Contact the distributors and manufacturers of catalogues, flyers, advertisements, etc., and request an opt-out from mailers. If you want to hear from these companies, sign up for their email program to get their information delivered to your inbox instead of your mailbox.
  4. Stop buying bottled water. Did you know that more than 60 million plastic water bottles are thrown away each day in the U.S.? Fill reusable containers before leaving home, or only purchase water in recyclable bottles.
  5. Get a reusable coffee mug. When you make your own coffee at home and carry it in a reusable container, not only will it cut back on the waste in our landfills, but it will also save you money. Just can’t handle DIY coffee? Many coffee shops allow you to bring your own container.
  6. Use ecological containers. Eliminate the use of plastic bags and throw-away containers as much as possible when you pack your lunch, snacks or leftovers.
  7. Buy high-quality, classic clothing. Purchasing cheap, trendy fashions each season and then tossing them is causing massive clothing waste. Buy smart, investing in pieces that will last the test of time. And when you no longer want those items, consigning or donating them is much better than adding to the landfill.

Reducing waste is actually rather simple. Decide now to make a little effort and the rewards will be great!