Use It Twice

There I am, each morning, staring at the sink, wondering how my habits affect the Big Picture. Now that I'm not recycling as much, I stand here wondering what I can do. Part of the morning routine involves using a paper towel in the microwave. I bet I can use that paper towel just one more time.

I'm not saying to use things over and over and over, I'm trying to re-use disposable or cleanable items things just twice. It can be a paper towel, a napkin, a plate, a spoon, a glass, or dozens of other things. Instead of trying to find things that can be washed and reused, thus using water, I'm looking for those things that can be re-used one more time, even if they have a little dirt on them. This has the effect of a 100% improvement in my product efficiency and a 50% reduction of items thrown into the trash. How about flushing (yellow) every other time?

Of course there are lots of exceptions. The paper coffee filter can't be re-used, but the knife I make the kids' lunch with, can. It's OK to mix a little peanut butter with my the cream cheese on my muffin. It seemed to be so important to find things that can be used forever without considering how much that item will need water or electricity resources to keep it clean. Now, try to Use It Twice.

If I can get Mountain Dad to leave all but the greasiest paper napkins on the kitchen table (yes, he cleans the table), the habits may eventually take hold through the family. I hope I don't need to check the trash can every morning. C'mon guys, work with me.