Before you make your next purchase, consider the 3Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) and ask yourself these questions:

• Do I need it?
• Can I reduce the amount that I buy?
• If I buy it, can it be reused when I am finished with it?
• If I buy it, can it be recycled or composted?

The following tips provide you with some ideas to reduce, reuse and recycle!

• Reuse packaging materials as this saves more energy than recycling the materials.
• Use the multi-material recycling centres in your building to recycle, plastics, cans, glass (coloured and clear) as well as paper and cardboard cups.
• Return toner cartridges from photocopy machines and printers to the One Stop Shop in your building.
• Return old batteries to the One Stop Shop to be disposed of through the chemical waste.
• Bring your own coffee mug when you purchase beverages.
• Bring your lunch to work in reusable containers.
• Use china and silverware to reduce the single-use disposable and packaging waste as much as possible.
• Maintain central files rather than using several files for individuals.
• Materiel Management procurement officers can help you to select environmentally friendly products and equipment.