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Zero Waste Challenge #16: Declutter and Dispose

The next two steps relate to a spot of spring cleaning:

  • Declutter your space
  • Dispose of old things properly

Giving your place a once over now and again can unearth all kinds of treasures, and there’s nothing quite like moving into a new home to help you reassess the things you own. Before you dispose of something, you may want to ask yourself: when was the last time I used this? I’ve moved several times in my lifetime, and it’s helped me become less sentimental and more practical.

But don’t get rid of stuff, just for the sake of getting rid of it. And don’t get rid of stuff, just because you want to replace it with eco-friendly alternatives. Use what you have in your home already, rather than creating unnecessary waste by replacing it.

If you have to get rid of something, make sure you do so responsibly. Pass on electronic gadgets and devices you no longer use or need to someone who can use them. If they’re broken beyond repair, find an e-waste recycling facility. Donate or pass on clothes to others.

And don’t use it as an excuse to buy more stuff. Part of decluttering is making sure you don’t create more of a mess you’ll just find yourself clearing out after a few years.

And for those things you know you’ll use over and over again? Make them last by taking care of them, like this popcorn machine that belonged to my best friend and now belongs to me. It’s as old as our friendship (25 years) and still works like a charm.

popcorn machine

Read more about the Earth Hero Zero Waste Challenge here.

Image credit.

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