Why buy garbage?
You probably don't go to the store saying, "I think I'll buy some garbage today."

But depending on which products you choose, that is at least partly what you're doing. By purchasing stuff that's over-packaged, disposable or of poor quality, your cash will soon end up as trash.

Purchase products that are returnable, reusable or refillable

Purchase reusable and refillable containers to use in your home instead of disposable items. Think about ways to reuse items in your home. Look for ways to reduce the amount of trash you throw in the garbage by making good purchasing decisions and looking for ways to reduce.

Example: Avoid buying single-use items like paper or plastic plates, cups and disposable silverware. You will spend more money buying these types of items and throwing them away than you would if you used reusable tableware.

Benefits: Reusable items eliminate or reduce the number of disposable items thrown away and the costs of disposing of them.

Reuse your bag

Looking for an easy way to change the way you shop? Reduce the waste you create when you bring home your purchases.

• First things first — do you even need a bag? Tell the clerk that you'll carry out your handful of items — why bag that magazine or pack of gum?! Toss them into your backpack or purse.
• A sturdy cloth bag is a nice investment. You can throw it over your shoulder for hands-free carrying, and it won't rip if you catch it on the doorknob or the car door. Cram it full of groceries!
• If you have to use paper or plastic, pick one that you'll use again. Many grocery stores offer a 5- or 10-cent rebate when you "bring back the sack" — it's good for the environment and your pocketbook!

Purchase products with the least amount of packaging

Buy only what you need and buy products in bulk containers and concentrates with less packaging. Shop in the bulk aisle at the grocery store for things that you seem to be buying often and have long shelf-lives such as detergents, dog food, pasta, cereal, cleaners and paper products. Buying in bulk will decrease waste and the total cost. Be alert – some "bulk packages" are just individually wrapped items that are packaged yet again and sold as a bulk item.

Example: Next time you go to the store, make a list of what you need. Then look for opportunities to buy in bulk or buy products that have less packaging. Look at a product and think about how much of what you are paying for will end up in the trash.

Benefits: Not only are you saving money, but you won't have to go to the store as often. When you shop smart by buying things in bulk or in concentrate you can reduce the amount of packaging headed to the trash.

Get the most out of what you buy

Nothing lasts forever. The things we buy today will eventually become waste in the future. Here are some questions to ask before you buy to protect your investment and prevent wasting time and money.

• Is it reliable? Ask the "experts" — people or organizations who have tested or repaired the product you want to buy. Evaluate the repair history of that product.
• Compare warranties. A longer warranty suggests that the manufacturer feels confident that it will last longer.
• How long do you need it? Are you purchasing a less reliable product because it's inexpensive and you don't want to invest in something that you'll rarely use? Consider renting or borrowing instead. Why buy – and then store – something you don't really need?
• What does it really cost? The purchase price is not the same as the cost to use and maintain a product. The longer you own something, the less it costs over time.
• Can I repair or upgrade it? Buying products that are easy to repair or improve will make your initial investment last longer. For example, you might be able to get some more life out of an older computer by improving one or two components instead of buying a whole new system. A "faster" processor doesn't necessarily need a new mouse or monitor. Upgrading lets you have "state-of-the-art" equipment at lower cost and with less waste.

Rent or borrow instead of buying

By renting equipment you can avoid having to purchase items that you may only use a few times. Some of the most commonly rented items are trailers, lawn care equipment, tables and chairs, ladders, power tools, tents and tree trimming equipment. You could also borrow items from friends or family to avoid purchasing.

Example: Rent or borrow items for your family or neighborhood get-together. Churches and schools are great resources for tables and chairs, and tents can be rented from most party rental centers. Renting reusable dishware from banquet halls for events and gatherings can prevent waste from disposable cups, plates, and silverware.

Benefits: Renting items saves you money and time, plus it can reduce the amount of trash created by these events. Often the rental center will drop off and pick up the items for you.