Always REDUCE first,
Then REUSE,
And finally RECYCLE
Our Bowen community is very fortunate to have a well organized mechanism in BIRD and the KKN to help us keep reusable and recyclable materials out of the landfill. We must remember however, that the first line of defense is our own consumer habits. The Story of Stuff (a fascinating and entertaining explanation) tells us that only 1% of what we purchase ends up staying in our homes. 99% ends up being disposed of in some fashion. So be aware of how easily we are manipulated by advertising and the consumer culture to buy and consider carefully how crucial that item is and what will be its future when you no longer have need for it.