Precycling: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Rebuy

Precycling

Refuse what you don't need
Reduce what you do need
Reuse what you can't reduce
Recycle what you can't reuse
Rebuy (buy recycled) whenever possible.

What is precycling?
Precycling is a term that refers to the consideration of the use and disposal of all components of the item you are purchasing, including the packaging. It means buying products that use less of the earth’s resources, create less solid waste, and conserve valuable landfill space.

Why precycle?
Each year 25 billion Styrofoam cups are thrown in the landfill.
Americans throw away 25 million plastic bottles every hour.
Over 1/3 of municipal solid waste is packaging, most of it paper.

By considering what will happen to the product and its packaging before you purchase it you are helping to decrease solid waste, particularly non-recyclable solid waste.

How do you precycle?
Its as simple as bringing your own grocery bags when you go to the supermarket, or at the very least choosing paper bags that are recyclable with cardboard at SRP’s drop-off centers. You can precycle by bringing your own mug to the coffee shop or dining in instead of taking out. Choosing glass or aluminum over plastic is precycling, as both glass and aluminum are easier to recycle and create less hazardous waste in their manufacturing. Look for products made or packaged with recycled materials and close the loop.

Most importantly avoid disposable products and those with elaborate packaging. Send the message to manufacturers that Americans don’t need over-packaged and disposable products. Use your dollar as your vote – money talks!