What is meant by "waste reduction"?

Waste reduction refers to the implementation of strategies aimed at decreasing the total amount of waste that is produced. This encompasses a range of practices, such as reducing the consumption of materials, improving the efficiency of production processes, rethinking product design for sustainability, and encouraging behaviors that minimize waste generation. By focusing on waste reduction, individuals and organizations can significantly lessen their ecological footprint, conserve resources, and promote a more sustainable approach to consumption.

The concept of waste reduction is crucial in environmental sustainability, as it helps address the pressing issue of overflowing landfills and the environmental impact of waste disposal. This approach emphasizes prevention—seeking to avoid creating waste in the first place rather than merely managing it after it is created.