The 3Rs slogan can be found in homes, schools, and offices. 3R stands for Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. It refers to a sustainable living concept done through better plastic waste processing.
Millions of pieces of plastic waste continue to flood our earth every day. To reduce waste, AQUA initiated a #BijakBerplastik movement. One of the activities is making AQUA glass crafts. To understand the importance of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle, read the explanation below!
Definition of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Reduce, reuse, and recycle means a sequence of steps to manage waste properly [1]. Furthermore, the definition of reduce, reuse, and recycle is as follows:
Reduce
Reducing waste is the top priority of the 3R concept. Reduce means minimizing the use of plastic products that will later become waste.
By reducing its production from the start, the potential for waste piles that can damage the environment will also effectively decrease.
Instead of using more plastic, you can use a drinking bottle or #BijakBerplastik by using your tableware, such as spoons and forks, during travel. This way, these tablewares can be used multiple times and reduce waste.
Reuse
Reuse means to use again. Simply put, this concept urges us to reuse used items.
Doing so can also reduce the possibility of waste generated from disposable products.
Reuse also asks you to reconsider throwing away any item, as you can use it again [2].
In the long run, reuse can prevent you from making unnecessary waste.
For instance, you can try utilizing an old biscuit tin as storage for coins or small accessories. You can also #BijakBerplastik by refilling used soap bottles and filling them with refill packs.
Another example of reuse is using an AQUA gallon at home. AQUA gallons use reusable packaging, they can be used again after being washed and cleaned hygienically at the AQUA factory.
Recycle
Recycling is the last 3R step that intends to give a second chance to a product, essentially creating a new product from a used one.
As a result, the recycled product can be reused instead of becoming a pile of garbage that pollutes the environment.
However, keep in mind that not all products can be recycled. According to A Singapore Government Agency Website, recycling needs to consider several things, including:
- Do not dispose of electronic waste, such as old televisions or cell phones, just anywhere.
- Check the item's recyclability. For the record, recyclable products include paper, metal, plastic, and glass items.
- Make sure that recyclable items are not contaminated with food or liquids. The solution is to rinse the item first before recycling it.
- Consider donating certain products, such as clothes, shoes, and bags, before throwing them in the trash.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Examples
Understanding reduce, reuse, and recycle examples can help you understand the 3R efforts better. Here are some of the 3R examples you should know:
Reduce
The most effective way to manage waste is by not creating it. Whether it's at home, school, or work, you can start reducing waste by implementing the following practices:
- Avoid using disposable cutlery. Instead, use reusable cutlery and bottles.
- Choose items with minimal or no packaging.
- Use both sides of the paper sheet.
- Bring your own shopping bag.
- Buy refilled items.
- Reduce the use of paper towels by using cloth wipes or handkerchiefs.
Reuse
Reusing a product can start with a few simple ways, such as:
- Choose products that can be reused.
- Reuse a product, either with the same or a different function.
- Utilize your old clothes as cleaning clothes.
- Use napkins instead of disposable tissues.
- Turn old tires into plant pots.
Recycle
In addition to reducing waste, the recycling stage can improve profit from an economic perspective. Some of the recycling examples are as follows:
- Processing organic waste into compost.
- Recycling plastic waste by turning it into handicrafts such as pencil cases, kitchen utensils, or even flowerpots.
- Utilize CDs/DVDs as coasters.
- Use old light bulbs as hanging plant pots.
That's all about the concept of reduce, reuse, and recycle, along with its examples. Are you ready to start the 3R steps in your daily life? Let's start with #BijakBerplastik by choosing healthy mineral water. Make sure to #AQUADULU because AQUA strives to use recycled-friendly packaging materials.
So, start protecting the environment and recycling plastic waste from now on with the #BijakBerplastik movement with AQUA. See you soon!
