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by Janelle Rolke @sustainablestepswithjanelle This is the sixth chapter from "Lead a Circular Lifestyle By Practicing the R's of Sustainability" If a particular item cannot be refused, reduced, or reused then perhaps it can be recycled. Of the seven R’s of sustainability, “Recycle” is the most tedious topic for me to write about.  It’s  confusing, controversial, and there’s always more to learn about. I previously mentioned that the recycling industry is broken.  Here are just a few reasons to support my claim: 91% of plastic is NOT recycled, the process to pick up/sort/melt is expensive, and because plastic degrades, it cannot be reused...

by Janelle Rolke @sustainablestepswithjanelle This is the fifth chapter from "Lead a Circular Lifestyle By Practicing the R's of Sustainability" Refill Stores that offer refill and bulk purchases are encouraging customers to reuse jars and containers again and again to avoid single-use packaging.   By choosing to refill, you are bringing the previous 4 R’s of sustainability full circle: rethinking how you consume, refusing to support companies that may not align with your beliefs towards social and environmental rights, and reducing your waste by reusing a container.   Retailers that offer refill stations and buying in bulk typically allow you to bring in...

by Janelle Rolke @sustainablestepswithjanelle This is the fourth chapter from "Lead a Circular Lifestyle By Practicing the R's of Sustainability" Reuse (Repurpose & Upcycle!) Instead of chucking it all into the trash or recycling, try using things more than once to extend the item's life. Reuse a jar as a flower vase, turn old socks into sock puppets, transform a wood pallet into a vertical wall planter, frame an old carpet or blanket and hang as wall décor, or make a tablecloth into curtains.   Transition from single use items to reusable options to reduce waste and save money! Typically, you will find...

by Janelle Rolke @sustainablestepswithjanelle This is the third chapter from "Lead a Circular Lifestyle By Practicing the R's of Sustainability" The amount we consume is excessive, so let’s slow it down.   Overconsumption is a real problem. Many of us have found ourselves constantly spending money on things that are not truly necessary and using too much product… I write this as I use WAY too much honey in my tea. Yes there are far worse things, but it’s a nice reminder to slow down and only use what I need.   I mentioned previously that the R’s of sustainability are connected. ...

by Janelle Rolke @sustainablestepswithjanelle This is the second chapter from "Lead a Circular Lifestyle By Practicing the R's of Sustainability" Just say “NO” to single use plastics, freebies, and sales. Just because it’s a “bargain” does not mean you need it.   There are numerous studies that have revealed that the more “stuff” you have can decrease productivity and distract you from spending time doing things that matter. Enter minimalism.  Along with many other topics I’m discussing, leading a minimalist lifestyle is a process. For most this process will take years, but the rewards are well worth the effort! The main...