We’re all familiar with the “three Rs” of reduce, reuse, recycle. Recently a 4th “R” has been popping up among Zero Waste bloggers: “refuse”- refuse excess packaging, refuse free samples you don’t need, refuse excess waste… etc.
This one is really hard for me to do. I’m a sucker for free samples. Those cute tiny little packages of lotions and shampoo are just oh-so-convenient. In my pre-Zero Waste days I got as many little sample packets as I could. Then I started realizing that they’re not convenient at all in the long run. Those packaging wrappers are going to be around my whole life, my son’s whole life, my grandchildren’s lives, my great-grandchildren’s lives… for generations and generations.
Choosing to refuse is a challenge that goes against most of our daily habits. This step requires a big shift in frame of mind, and thought process. So this summer I hope you’ll do your best to change old habits. Refuse the excess and refuse the “fun” freebies that you’ll only use once or twice. Your great-great-great-great-great grandchildren will thank you!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Olivia lives in Boulder, Colorado with her husband and 4 year old son. She enjoys spending time in the mountains, studying about essential oils, natural remedies and herbs, as well as upcycling/ DIY projects. Olivia’s family made the move last year towards becoming a Zero Waste household. They have gotten down to one bathroom sized trashcan a month of garbage but hope to be totally Zero Waste by the end of 2015.
Like this? Check out the rest of our Waste Less and Be Green in 2015 series for more tips!
Refusing plastic is sometimes very difficult! I have an issue with packaged food but I try get paper bags or bring reusable
I have not heard it before but it is a great idea. I have been refusing some things but had not thought of it as part of the 3 R’s making it a 4th R. I think refusing some things maybe difficult, such as packaging on meats and such, but for other things such as free samples I don’t need, plastic bags at the super market, etc will not be difficult.
I haven’t heard if it before. I am a “freebie” lover too!
I love the feeling of opening my mailbox and there being some sort of goodie in there.
So I vow to stop entering for freebies, start entering for full size contests only 🙂
I always refuse plastic bags when I shop, and use my reusible bags when I can