The first step in waste reduction takes place when a product is purchased. Look for landscaping supplies that are available without excess packaging, such as in bulk form. Fertilizers and pesticides can be purchased in bulk quantities, reusable containers, or water-soluble packages. Bulk packaging reduces the amount of waste per unit of product, and usually costs less. Reusable packages are designed to be returned to the manufacturer or distributor to be refilled.
Some manufacturers produce water-soluble packaging that is incorporated into the final product.
In the landscape industry, the reuse or recycling of plant containers can have a dramatic impact on the waste stream from landscape operations. Nurseries may accept certain empty plastic flats, as well as plastic and wood plant containers, for reuse. Wood containers can be reused as decorative planters, cut up into stakes, or ground up for mulch. Plastic containers that are not reused can be recycled and incorporated into products such as plastic lumber for landscaping timbers, benches, or playground equipment. Landscape Design, Installation and Plant Selection With appropriate landscape design and plant selection, the landscape waste stream can be significantly reduced, in turn reducing the overall waste stream.