Reduce, Reuse & Exchange
City Inside/Out episode about the upcoming plastic bag ban (30 min).
Despite our city’s recycling efforts, Seattle still throws away a lot. Our landfills contain paper that’s only used on one side, food that could be composted, doors and windows that could be re-used, and extra packaging.
If you’d like to reduce your garbage, these tips can help.
Reduce
Avoid waste, save money, and protect our planet:
- Reduce paper waste by stopping unwanted junk mail and phone books.
- Print double-sided and learn other ways to save paper through the City of Seattle’s PaperCuts reduction strategies.
- Bring your own reusable bags, containers, and coffee mug when you shop.
- Rent equipment or share items via lending libraries.
Reuse
Reusing products cuts your disposal costs and supports a significant local economy.
- Sell items you no longer want and find bargains at consignment shops, garage sales, thrift stores, online exchanges and auctions like eBay and Craig’s List.
- Buy salvaged building materials and architectural pieces.
- Rather than buy new hazardous products like bleach or car polish, get products that other King County residents have brought to the South Household Hazardous Waste Facility. Availability of free products varies, but may include: oil-based paint, household cleansers, wood care products, antifreeze and other automotive products. You will need to sign a release form before receiving any materials.
- Many organizations can use items you no longer want. Do you have materials for sewing or art projects? Old towels, blankets, or sheets for pet shelters or vets? See Resources to Reduce & Reuse.
Stop Yellow Pages Director's Rule
This rule provides guidance for yellow pages phone book publishers on how they should comply with the City's Yellow Pages Opt-Out Registry ordinance. Read the Stop Yellow Pages Director's Rule (pdf).
Related Links
Building Material Salvage and Recycling - A Client Assistance Memo (CAM) describing approaches to salvage and reuse of valuable building materials.
Green Home Remodel: Salvage & Reuse - A guide providing step-by-step directions on how to increase salvage and reuse on your building project.
Special Items that can be recycled or disposed of at transfer stations but not in home recycling or garbage
Climate Action Now