It is clear, however, that any climate change will not be easily reversed. Because greenhouse gases remain in the atmosphere a long time, turning back climate changes may take decades or even centuries. Waste prevention and recycling jointly referred to as waste reduction help us better manage the solid waste we generate. But preventing waste and recycling also are potent strategies for reducing greenhouse gases. Reduce emissions from energy consumption.
Recycling saves energy.
That s because making goods from recycled materials typically requires less energy than making goods from virgin materials. And waste prevention is even more effective. Less energy is needed to extract, transport, and process raw materials and to manufacture products when people reuse things or when products are made with less material. When energy demand decreases, fewer fossil fuels are burned and less carbon dioxide is emitted to the atmosphere. Reduce emissions from incinerators.