What is one way to reduce waste at the individual level?

Reducing waste at the individual level can be effectively achieved through recycling and composting materials. This practice diverts waste from landfills and conserves natural resources. Recycling involves the process of converting waste materials into new products, which diminishes the need for raw materials and helps reduce environmental degradation. On the other hand, composting turns organic waste, such as food scraps and yard waste, into nutrient-rich soil, which can enhance gardening and landscaping while decreasing the volume of waste that ends up in trash bins.

In contrast, options that involve using more plastic products or increasing consumption of single-use items directly contribute to waste generation, exacerbating environmental issues. Ignoring recycling programs leads to reduced participation in efforts designed to manage waste responsibly and may hinder community-wide sustainability initiatives. Hence, the most impactful way to minimize personal waste is through recycling and composting, as these practices promote sustainability and resource conservation.