They can then take the items for their own use or for resale. Source Reduction Programs in Other Localities Consumer education is one of the most widely used source reduction techniques applied by communities. Local merchants are also encouraged to use reusable tableware and to offer discounts to customers who bring their own containers. The programs are promoted through fliers and newspaper ads. In Boulder, a survey was taken of 2,000 shoppers to determine the impact of the program.
Consumer education works for younger audiences as well.
In one school where children were asked to minimize the packaging in their lunch boxes, lunchroom garbage decreased by one-third, from 60 to 40 pounds per day. Another education method used is that of supermarket labeling. Sonoma County, California, has two depots at the landfill and transfer station, which are operated by a non-profit agency. Items are dropped off and may be purchased by repair shops, flea market vendors, contractors, and residents. One of the more common legislative means of enforcing source reduction is banning yard waste at the landfill, in force in 14 states in 1995.