008. Choose to Reuse

Thrift stores allow you to shop in a reusable way!

Each and every one of us has an impact on our environment, positive or negative. Since the industrial revolution, the prodcution and consumption of goods has increased dramatically. According to the Economic Research Survey 2007:2-5, 503 billion pounds of non-edible goods are thrown away each year by Americans. Help us eliminate unneccessary overproduction and waste! We are focused on resisting the current culture of over-consumption. Here are two simple ways to lower the amount of waste that is produced.

Paper or Plastic? Neither! Choose reusable bags instead of opting for paper or plastic bags at the check out stand. Keep reusable bags convienently located, which will help you remember them when you go shopping. If you find yourself with a few items that you are able to carry out, opt to go without a bag! Try and purchase reusable bags that have been recycled. Check out... http://www.reusethisbag.com/ and ecobags.com/Our_Products/Recycled_Products

Fabulous finds! By choosing to do your back to school shopping at a local thrift store, you will be reusing great and often well-made items. You will also find one of a kind items, save money and have fun! Some of our favorite stores are Buffalo Exchange (buffaloexchange.com), Labomba Vintage in Downtown Pomona (labombavintage.com), and pretty much any other thrift store we can find. 

Choose to reuse. Please share any other tips or ideas which resist over-consumption and encourage reusing!