​It takes time and money to handle all the waste we throw away. When we reduce the amount of stuff we buy and eventually throw away, we end up with more time, space, money and happiness.

Top ways to reduce waste at home

Shop smart
Ask yourself these simple questions when you’re thinking of purchasing an item:

• Do I need this and do I need it now?
• Was it made sustainably?
• Can I rent or borrow this item?
• Can I buy this used?
• How much time and money will I spend maintaining this item?
• Does it have too much packaging?
• What will I do with it when it breaks or I no longer want it?

Get used
Learn how to shop at secondhand stores and how to donate what you don’t need.

Repair what you have
Attend a Fix-It Clinic to get free help repairing and mending household items.

Stop junk mail
The average American receives more than 26 pounds of junk mail every year. Find ways to reduce catalog delivery, credit card offers and more using our partner, Hennepin County's Hold the Mail brochure.

Avoid wasted food
Food we throw out wastes a lot of resources — energy, water, land and money. Learn how to reduce your food waste at home.