Invisible Waste
This week, we present a special Waste Not Wednesday! Today, we focus on some less obvious, invisible sources of waste. It can seem overwhelming to think of all the trash you CAN see, let alone what you can’t, but being aware of these unsustainable practices can allow you to make small changes with big results!
The term “invisible waste” generally refers to waste created during manufacturing. For example, if you buy a t-shirt, consider the chemicals and waste involved in creating it and what it takes to recycle it. Even demand for an off-season crop grown far away can cause overstock that ends up in the trash. Reusing, repairing, or sharing items can eliminate this waste before it begins (and save money), as can choosing to purchase locally and sustainably made products as often as possible.
Similarly, manufacturers, vehicles, and other sources emit carbon dioxide that pollutes our atmosphere. Many big companies have capitalized by touting their brands as supposedly carbon neutral, claiming they offset their emissions through other practices, but for the average person, walking or bicycling more could both reduce local air pollution and save on fuel. Supporting local businesses and farms rather than ordering online or traveling for items also reduces the “carbon footprint” involved in transportation.
One final source of invisible waste is perhaps the least obvious—data. That’s right, “going paperless” might save a tree, but it creates waste too. When we stream video or store tons of emails, all that data needs to go somewhere and be viewed on something. Data centers, electronic devices, and networks all create waste in manufacturing and use up loads of energy, mostly provided by fossil fuels. Instead of doom scrolling and trolling, mindful use of our screentime can both benefit ourselves and our planet.
Like the wind blowing the autumn leaves to the ground, some forces aren’t visible until the effects build up! It’s important to be aware of the source of waste and stop it where it starts. A few small changes at the start could save you a big problem later on!