2.10 The Environment and You According to the [16], there are many things that can be done by the individual to help the environment. One thing designers can do is work to design products that support the individual’s ability to act responsibly. These activities can be thought of user requirements in product development. 1. Put paper towels out of easy reach so they will be used only when needed. Set up a countertop or wall holder for sponges, rags, and cloth towels. 2. Buy beverages in returnable or recyclable containers. Most beverages are packaged in recyclable materials, which include glass, plastic milk and water jugs, plastic soda bottles, and aluminium. 3. Buy concentrated products to reduce packaging. Examples are concentrated fruit juice, laundry detergent, fabric softener, and window cleaner. 4. Avoid buying packaged foods with disposable, non-reheatable microwave-able dishes. If you must buy them, the dishes can be re-used as picnic plates, plant saucers or pet dishes. 5. Carry a canvas or net tote bag when you shop. It is not only a safe, convenient way to carry purchases, but it eliminates the need for disposable paper or plastic bags. 6. Cancel subscriptions to magazines or newspapers you don't actually read, especially if you could read them at the local library. Give old issues to friends, co-workers, nursing homes, laundromats or libraries. Many newspapers and magazines have online versions, usually available free; read those instead hardcopy versions. 7. Buy products that are durable, well made, and repairable. Check warranties, repair
services, and availability of parts and accessories. Read consumer magazines (your
library probably carries copies) to learn which products are more durable and have longer warranties.
8. Use carpools or public transit to extend the wear of cars and tires and reduce car
maintenance wastes such as used oil.
9. Reduce toxic waste by purchasing paints, pesticides, and other hazardous materials only in the quantities needed, or by sharing leftovers.
10. Use plug-in appliances instead of those that operate on batteries. Disposable batteries are discarded after one use. Rechargeable batteries are the largest source of cadmium (which is very toxic) in the municipal waste stream.
11. Americans throw away about 2.5 billion disposable razors every year. Use an electric shaver or a quality razor with replaceable blades.
12. Bar soap generates less packaging waste and is less expensive than liquid soap in plastic bottles with pump dispensers.
13. Take proper care of shoes and clothing and repair them to extend use.
14. Do not discard usable clothing or household items. Hold a yard sale or donate the items to charitable organizations. Worn clothing and other textiles can be used as rags or for craft projects.
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