Our environment is already suffering from the results of human activities and industrialisation. One effective way to limit the damage and get things back in control is by implementing the Reduce, Reuse, Recycle (the 3Rs) approach.
Many people still think that the 3Rs only apply to the manufacturing and chemical companies. Truly, industrial wastes should be reduced and some materials should be recycled and reused. However, it doesn’t end there.
The role of public in Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
The public can also take part in protecting the environment and building a sustainable future. In Australia alone, there are over 20 million people. Even if a small percentage of those is participating in protecting the environment, it can readily result to a large impact. The results will also amplify and accumulate if they are applying environment-friendly practices on a daily basis.
How can people start with the 3Rs?
We can begin by analysing our daily activities. It’s likely that in most of those we can find opportunities where we could prefer more environment-friendly practices. For example, maybe we can just walk or ride a bike when we’re going somewhere instead of driving. This will reduce our fuel consumption and reliance on fossil fuel.
Another example is our drinking water consumption. In that one activity we can apply the 3Rs in one go. Here’s how. Instead of regularly buying bottled water, we can have a stainless water bottle where we can regularly fill it up. We Reduce the waste because we’re not using and throwing plastic bottles. We also apply the Reuse and Recycle approach because we can use the stainless water bottle again and again.
This small change can add up especially if we’re doing it every day. Think of how many plastic bottles that won’t end up in the landfill every year. We’re already on our way to saving the environment and minimising the waste.
The key here is to start with our daily habits and activities. One small change can totally add up and it doesn’t require too much effort at all. It can easily be a part of our daily lifestyle. In addition, each individual can benefit from applying environmentally sound practices. Plastic water bottles themselves may contain chemicals (that might leach out) that might harm our health.
In summary, implementing the 3Rs in our activities including water consumption can benefit both the environment and our health. The steps are simple and you can take action today.
