Reusing helps to sustain a comfortable quality of life and support a productive economy the following ways:

• Keeps goods and materials out of the waste stream

• Advances source reduction

• Preserves the energy that was originally used to manufacture an item

• Reduces the strain on valuable resources, such as fuel, forests, water supplies, and helps safeguard wildlife habitats

• Creates less air and water pollution than making a new item or recycling

• Results in less hazardous waste

• Saves money in purchases and disposal costs

• Generates new business and employment opportunities for both small entrepreneurs and large enterprises

• Creates an affordable supply of goods that are often of excellent quality