The Household Waste Reduction Challenge!

Each Canadian tosses about 2.7kg (5.95 lbs) of trash each day resulting in more than 31 million tonnes of garbage produced in Canada each year. Imagine about 15 million mini vans (2-3 tons per van) piled on top of each other. That's a lot of garbage!

A year ago my father and I challenged each other to reduce household waste for one week. We both learned a lot in the process. After the challenge our household made some changes to help reduce waste which allowed us to exchange our large city garbage bin for the smallest sized bin. But then winter came and our bin started suffering from overflowitis. It's time to take another look at reducing household waste!

For one week, from April 17 to April 23, 2011 [Earth Week], join me in making an effort to reduce household waste. During this week I will offers ways to help reduce waste as well as have some fun giveaways!

There are two ways you can get involved in this challenge:

Be a Participant

Track your waste output for the week using this downloadable Household Waste Challenge Chart (pdf version) (Excel version). At the end of the week come together as a household and make some decisions that will help reduce waste. Post about your results on Facebook, Twitter, your blog and/or comment on my blog.

Be an Observer

Does the idea of reducing waste seems insurmountable? Start by casually observing what your household throws away for one week. Read my blog posts from April 17 to April 23 and start thinking of ways for reduce waste. 

If you are interested in taking part in this challenge please submit a comment below or contact me.