In my small community here, in Northwestern Ontario - we are about to have 'free weekend.' This is when all the household furniture, appliances, clothes, and other household items are - placed out at the curb with a sign that reads 'free', on it. These articles are from the excess that most people have accumulating in their attics, basements and closets. They haven't used them, haven't sold them and so, they have the option of giving them away. Most items are usually, picked up and transported to new homes. It is an incredible way to see 'someones trash turned into, another mans treasure.' It reduces the risk of fire inside the home that turned it out and helps someone else - in the process.

When I visit the grocery store, I buy the 10kg bag of sugar instead of the 4 kg bag. I have a storage unit for it. It will not go bad before its used up. I also purchase my vegetables in - the freezer isle, as much as possible. This reduces the amount of both, garbage and waste. These bags can be 'resealed', so you only use what you need. Instead of buying plastic storage containers for my, blueberry and fruit freezing - I reuse the milk cartons that we buy anyways. Buying the larger containers reduces the amount of garbage I throw out but, it also helps with less fuel emissions. I am spending less time running out, and running back and forth to the grocery store. Less gas too! Bonus.

With all communities, we have our share of the 'in need' ones. On a regular basis, I try to find a home for otherwise, useful items. Ski pants, boots (I put fresh liners in them), winter wear and yarn. The discarded yarn I come across, I knit into mittens and slippers - many a child's hands have been warmed by them. Many a grateful parent, have been spared the agony of frozen fingers and toes - theirs and their child's.

I seems to me that, if we think BEFORE we buy - allot of waste could be reduced BEFORE it is produced. That to me, is the point.

In my little community here, in Northwestern Ontario - we think of others and I think before I buy. Allot is accomplished with these simple, little actions.

Learn more about this author, Francesca Collins.
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