Buy from material suppliers who commit to zero (or at least less) packaging – do pipes really need packaging?

Use materials from recycled sources first, before moving on to buying new building products. You can find plenty of reclaimed or salvaged home building materials. Wood is a biggie resource that you can often find recycled.

Always return new, unused materials to your supplier.

Buy local – this is a big issue if you’re going to need to return an item. One, shipping equals gas use. Two, some people find the cost of sending an item back long distance cost prohibitive.

Make sure to specify that your site is a recycling site. Set up recycling bins that are clearly marked. If you are remodeling, set up reclaimed material bins as well. Use smaller bins for items like nails and screws.

If you’re using materials and products that can’t be returned to the supplier, say a 1/2 used package, or you’ve got some reclaimed materials that aren’t going to be used, be sure to donate them to a reuse center. Someone else may be able to use your recycled or unused materials.

Also read: Eleven Recycled Houses