The 3 Rs

3R stands for Reduce, Reuse and Recycle (reduce, reuse, recycle). This concept refers to strategies for waste management looking to become more sustainable with the environment and specifically to give priority to the reduction in the volume of waste generated.

Japan is credited with the creation of this idea, which in 2002 introduced the Policy for Establishing a Recycling-Oriented Society, carrying out various campaigns between civil organizations and government bodies to spread among citizens and companies the idea of the 3Rs. During the G8 Summit in June 2004, Prime Minister of Japan, Junichiro Koizumi, submitted the 3R Initiative which seeks to build a recycling-oriented society. In April 2005 held a meeting of ministers in which they discussed with the United States, Germany, France and 20 other countries how they can be implemented on an international actions related to the 3Rs. 


Meaning of 3R

Reduced-referred reduce the volume of waste. For example, eating smaller packaging products or packaging made from biodegradable or recyclable materials.

Reuse "refers to use materials that can still be used, instead of discarding them. For example, using PET or glass bottles for storing water, oil or food.

Recycle-referred to transform waste materials to create new products. For example, transform waste PET bottles into fibers for making clothes.