How?

Start by examining what you are buying, and whether there is a more environmentally friendly alternative. Ask yourself: Is the item a part of something that you need to do, or want to do in your life? There are many things that we just don’t need. Chances are you don’t need a big truck with four-wheel drive, or a sports car. Buying one encourages production, wastes your resources and creates tonnes (literally!) of unnecessary waste. Make sure that what you consume matches what you actually need.

Here are some simple things you can do to reduce waste:

• Use a water filter or buy the large reusable water jugs instead of smaller disposable jugs
• Print on both sides of the paper to reduce paper waste
• Avoid using disposable plates, spoons, cups, bags, and napkins.
• Use a travel mug when you order a takeaway drink, and ask for a mug instead of a paper cup when you are staying at a restaurant.
• While grocery shopping, ring a reusable bag –it’s easy and it can save money!
• Avoid buying items that are over-packaged with foil, paper, and plastic. This excess packaging goes to waste.
• Use cloth napkins instead of paper napkins.
• Buy durable goods that have along warranty. They generally run longer and save landfill space.

Improperly managed waste can leach chemicals, which travel through the soil and contaminate the groundwater. As one of the most water-scarce countries in the world, Jordan cannot afford to spoil this precious resource!