A recent Reddit post has sparked a discussion about waste management practices at Lowe’s, one of America’s largest home improvement stores.
The post, which shows a shopping cart overflowing with flattened cardboard boxes, raises questions about the company’s commitment to environmental protection.
What happens?
A Reddit user shared a photo on the r/Lowes community with the caption: “We are so concerned about the environment, why is this one-page stack…?”
In addition, another Lowe’s employee who identified himself as an employee left a comment saying, “My manager tells us to throw all our cardboard into the baler when the baler is full because they don’t want to bale. And that’s just one specific example in one store. I can’t even imagine the amount of waste the entire company produces.”
Why is cardboard waste a concern?
Proper recycling of cardboard reduces the need for new raw materials.
Disposing of this highly recyclable material in trash compactors contributes to an unnecessary increase in landfill space, which in turn can lead to the production of more methane, a highly polluting gas that, when it decomposes, contributes to the overheating of our planet.
In addition, producing new cardboard to replace the waste requires additional energy and resources, which puts additional strain on our environment.
Is Lowe’s doing something about it?
Lowe’s has previously stated its commitment to sustainability. The company’s website states that it aims to “keep waste out of landfills by encouraging recycling and finding new uses for used materials.”
However, this Reddit post suggests that there may be a gap between company policies and on-site practices. This is a small sample, so it’s important to note that this could be an isolated case in this store and is not representative of practices across the company.
Otherwise, Lowe’s has also made great strides in other areas of sustainability – including the company’s commitment to increase the proportion of renewable energy used in its operations by 2030.
What is generally being done about cardboard waste?
The good news is that many retailers and businesses are making great progress.
Cities across the country are expanding programs to make it easier for businesses and individuals to recycle cardboard, while companies are developing more sustainable packaging options, including reusable and compostable alternatives to traditional cardboard.
As a consumer, you can make a difference by choosing products with minimal packaging and properly recycling cardboard at home. Also, ask at your local grocery store—many accept clean cardboard for recycling.
And before you recycle, consider reusing cardboard boxes for storage, gardening, or even DIY projects to extend their lifespan.
By making small changes in our daily lives and encouraging businesses to improve, we can all help reduce waste and create a more sustainable future. Every box properly recycled is a step towards a cleaner, greener planet – and that’s an improvement we can all support.
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