Define waste refusal and waste reduction.

Waste refusal is the act of consciously choosing to avoid creating waste by refusing to use or purchase products that generate unnecessary waste. This can include opting for reusable items, avoiding single-use plastics, and choosing products with minimal packaging.

Waste reduction, on the other hand, involves minimizing the amount of waste produced by using resources more efficiently and making conscious efforts to reduce, reuse, and recycle materials. This can include practices such as composting, recycling, and repurposing items to extend their lifespan and reduce the overall amount of waste generated.

Waste Refusal:

Waste refusal refers to the practice of avoiding the generation of waste in the first place. It involves making conscious choices to use products and services that minimize the creation of waste. Examples of waste refusal include:

- Using reusable bags instead of single-use plastic bags
- Opting for refillable water bottles instead of purchasing bottled water
- Bringing your own container to restaurants for take-out instead of using disposable containers

Waste Reduction:

Waste reduction encompasses various strategies to minimize the amount of waste produced. It involves reducing the consumption of materials, reusing items, and recycling materials whenever possible. Examples of waste reduction include:

- Buying only what you need
- Repairing and reusing items instead of discarding them
- Composting organic waste to create nutrient-rich soil
- Recycling materials such as paper, plastic, and metal
- Using eco-friendly alternatives to conventional products (e.g., reusable diapers, bamboo toothbrushes)