Refuse

Many items purchased today come with elaborate packaging or are considered one-time or disposable items. By rethinking the way you use these products, you can send a strong message to manufacturers to change their ways:

• Use your own washable coffee mug instead of getting your drink in a disposable cup.
• Purchase products that come with less packaging.
• Carry your purchases in cloth bags instead of plastic bags.
• Place a “No Junk Mail” sticker on your mailbox to refuse mass-mailed advertisements.
• Refuse unnecessary condiments, plastic cutlery, straws or paper napkins that may come with your fast-food meal.
• Give gift certificates instead of presents which may or may not be used by the recipient.