Buy products that are durable, well-made and repairable. Check warranties, repair services and availability of parts and accessories. Use carpools or public transit to extend the wear of cars and tires and reduce car maintenance wastes such as used oil. Reduce toxic waste by purchasing paints, pesticides and other hazardous materials only in the quantities needed, or by sharing leftovers. Another way to reduce toxic waste is to avoid using batteries whenever possible.
Disposable batteries contain mercury and other hazardous substances.
Rechargeable batteries are the largest source of cadmium in the municipal waste stream. Use plug-in appliances instead of those that operate on batteries. Americans throw away about 2.5 billion disposable razors every year. Use an electric shaver or a quality razor with replaceable blades. Bar soap generates less packaging waste and is less expensive than liquid soap in plastic bottles with pump dispensers.