August 2006
Commercial RethinkWaste Nexus
Transforming the Way We Think about Trash
With the height of summer, you're probably drinking a lot of beverages to keep hydrated and cool. Remember that most of your refreshments are served in a container, and you do have a lot of choice here. See below for some ideas to reduce, reuse, and recycle beverage-related containers.
Reduce :: Buy Green Computers
Think about it — gas costs $3 a gallon, but you're paying $10 a gallon for bottled water. Consider an alternative: filling your own reusable water bottle from the tap.
Tap water is highly regulated to meet specific purity requirements, and costs only pennies a glass in comparison. So, next time you have a thirst for water, reach for your own bottle.
For another take on bottled versus tap water, see "Bottle vs. Tap" at http://buhangkut77.wordpress.com/bottle-tap/.
Reuse :: BYOB: Bring your water bottle
In light of the high cost of packaging and transporting your water bottles to the store, consider carrying your very own water bottle for your health. Not only will you feel better refilling your bottle (a good reuse activity), but you'll get some exercise in the mix.
And, consider your choice of bottle--some studies show plastic and other bottles can leach potentially toxic chemicals. Choose stainless steel or glass instead.
For examples of safe water bottle options, see Ideal Bite at http://idealbite.com/tiplibrary/tip.php.
Recycle :: Got Recycling?
If you don't have bottle and can recycling, contact your local hauler, like Allied Waste, to set up a collection program. There is no charge for existing trash customers, and you will save money by adding recycling and reducing trash. Who knows, with that extra cash you save, you can throw a party for your colleagues!
Do your part to help the planet: reduce, reuse, and recycle!
This article produced by South Bayside Waste Management Authority/RethinkWaste, a regional agency, formed in 1982 to help local communities manage and reduce waste. To learn more about us, visit About SBWMA.
To be added or removed from this list, contact the RethinkWaste Recycling Coordinator at (650) 802-3500.
