Reuse

Reuse is simply the act of finding a second (or third, or tenth or hundredth) use for a product to prolong its life. Reuse is an important step after you’ve already reduced, but before you are ready to recycle.

Reuse is a process that many of us already implement in our everyday lives without even realizing it. Any time you buy or sell an item second-hand using resources like Craigslist, eBay or Goodwill, you are providing an additional use for this product.

The important thing to consider when you want to reuse is that creativity is king. The creativity also provides the opportunity to be thrifty by reusing what you already have for new, innovative purposes.

Try some of these great ideas from the Earth911 archives:

• Fresh Tips for Reusing Plastic
• Double-Duty Reuse For 7 Common Household Items
• 8 Ways to Reuse Your T-shirt
• 7 Reused Items to Boost Your Garden
• 8 Ways to Inspire Reuse in Your Community
• Fun Crafts With Used Plastic
• Awesome DIY Reuse Ideas
• 5 Ways to Repurpose Your Trash
• 6 Eggcellent Uses For Egg Cartons
• Vote For Your Favorite Reuse Design
• 5 DIY Crafts for Used Books