Help keep unnecessary packaging materials out of the landfill! By making simple choices when you shop, you can reduce the amount of plastic wrap, cardboard and other man-made packaging that comes with your purchase.
- Whenever possible, shop at grocery stores that offer unpackaged products in bins. Bins reduce the need for structured, stackable packaging that is generally found on shelves.
- Handpick your fruit and vegetables from bins and barrels and place them directly in a reusable shopping bag. Avoid purchasing over-packaged produce that is sold at retail giants, such as the all-too-familiar four-pack of apples in a plastic container.
- Buy groceries in bulk. Leftovers can usually be stored in reusable, airtight containers or frozen for use at a later date.
- When packaging is unavoidable, choose products with lightweight or recyclable packaging. Lightweight packaging contains fewer materials, which reduces energy consumption during the packaging manufacturing process and cuts back on fuel used for transport.
- Most toiletry and cleaning supply brands offer extra-large or refillable containers. Whenever possible, take advantage of these offers. For instance, buy one reusable hand-soap dispenser and a 56-ounce industrial-sized bottle of hand-soap, rather than a 12-pack of 7.5-ounce bottles. By doing so, you can save money and reduce the amount of materials that go to the landfill.