Proper disposal of human waste is important to avoid pollution of water sources, avoid the negative implications of someone else

finding it, minimize the possibility of spreading disease, and maximize the rate of decomposition. The foundation for any waste management program is the three Rs - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Typically, the initial goal is to reduce waste materials by never acquiring them in the first place. After reducing all feasible waste, the focus then changes to looking for ways to reuse materials to extend the life of the item. The final step is to recycle all the remaining materials that are accepted locally. A fourth R rebuy encourages the use of products that contained recycled material. This assists in providing an incentive to recyclers. In addition to protecting the environment, proper waste management will allow organizations and households to gain from decreasing costs and liabilities. Reduce Buy goods with little or no packaging Repair an item, if feasible, before replacing the item. Consider whether an old item can be of value to other organizations/foundations. Consider the toxicity of the item prior to purchase, that way you can reduce the toxicity of the waste you generate. Buy only what you need as disposing of any excess can be costly (especially for hazardous material such as pesticides, some paints and stains, etc.). Reuse Reuse items for a new purpose such as old tablecloths or bed sheets for cleaning rags, containers for storage, and office paper for scratch work. Donate old electronic equipment you will be replacing, if still useful, to a nearby school or charitable organisation Recycle Participate in a recycling programme. Investigate what can be recycled in your community/area and separate your recyclables from the general waste Consider composting your organic waste and/or donating un-served food to a shelter or food bank. Rebuy

Purchase products that contain post-consumer recyclable material as this will encourage organisations to use more recycled material in their products than natural/virgin resources and close the loop for the recycling cycle.