Reuse
Reuse refers to finding a second, third, etc. use for material without
further processing. This can be accomplished in many ways, including:
- Using the entirety of a resource (such as using the back side of
single-side-printed paper for scratch paper).
- Allowing others to use your materials when you're done (such as submitting
old equipment to the Rice Greensheet
department surplus sale, giving old clothes to charity, or sharing periodical
subscriptions).
- Reusing non-expendable materials (such as paper clips, binders,
folders, and other office supplies).
This principle is often already used as a budget-saving method, since it
lowers the need for more purchases. This principle is extended when
purchases are planned with reuse in mind (by buying more durable and reusable
materials).
Created by Ryan McMullan,
Environmental Intern, for the Environmental
Programs Steering Committee, creators of The Enviro-Web of
Rice University