The Waste Hierarchy is a guide for managing waste in the most environmentally sound way. It prioritizes minimizing waste generation and resource consumption, starting with refusing what we don't need. This means saying no to single-use plastics, excess packaging, and items we'll likely use only once. Then, we can reduce the amount we buy and consume by making thoughtful purchases and using only what we need.

Next comes reuse. Finding creative ways to repurpose items instead of discarding them gives them a longer lifespan. This could be anything from using jars for storage to turning old clothes into shopping bags. Embracing a 'make-do-and-mend' philosophy also reduces our reliance on new products. ''Repairing broken items instead of replacing them is a key element of the reuse principle.

Recycling is the fourth step, transforming materials into new products. While crucial, it's important to remember recycling is resource-intensive, and not all materials can be recycled infinitely. Finally, the last resort in the hierarchy is rotting (composting). This involves decomposing organic materials like food scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for gardens and farms. By following the waste hierarchy – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot – we can significantly decrease our environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable Aotearoa New Zealand.