Which practice involves using products or materials again instead of disposing of them?

The practice of using products or materials again instead of disposing of them is known as reuse. This concept emphasizes the importance of extending the lifecycle of an item by finding new uses for it without significant alteration or processing. For example, using an old glass jar to store buttons instead of throwing it away exemplifies reuse.

This approach is beneficial for reducing waste and conserving resources, as it minimizes the need for new products and the associated environmental impacts of manufacturing. Reuse encourages individuals and communities to think creatively about how they can utilize items that might otherwise be discarded, thus promoting sustainability and resource efficiency.

Other practices such as recycling involve processing items to create new materials, which, while also valuable, differs from the straightforward function of reuse. Repurposing, although similar, often implies a transformation or a new function that requires alteration of the original item, which does not align with the straightforward intention of reuse. Therefore, the definition of reuse is distinctly focused on the direct application of items again in their original form.