Although recycling is an important part of any waste management strategy, the greatest environmental benefits are achieved through source reduction and reuse. Consider a simple example; we can reduce trash disposal and save raw materials if we collect plastic grocery bags for recycling and incorporate them into a new product such as plastic lumber. However, a better option would be to take no bag at all, as no natural resources or energy are used to first produce, then collect and reprocess disposable bags. Using a reusable canvas or string bag would have similar environmental benefits as the bag could replace thousands of disposable bags over its useful life. Any organization reviewing their waste management strategy should first consider ways to reduce waste and incorporate reusable products to achieve the maximum benefit to the environment. We hope that you will consider some of the following suggestions to reduce the waste stream generated by your school. Your efforts may provide the additional benefit of saving money as well. Remember, even small changes can make a big difference! Make double-sided copies whenever possible. This can dramatically reduce your paper usage. Instead of making individual copies for everyone, use a routing slip when circulating information to staff, or post notices on a bulletin board. Better yet, an electronic bulletin board. Use reusable envelopes for interoffice mail. If applicable, use electronic mail instead of making hard copies of all communications.