Decarbonization: meaning, technology and goals
1 min
Level
In this article, we delve into the importance of decarbonizing our societies and outline actionable steps companies can take today to embark on their net-zero journey.
The voice of impact
ESG / CSR
Industries
MEASURE
ACT
COMFORM
The Six Rs of Sustainability: what are they?
Level
As the world faces mounting environmental challenges - climate change, plastic waste, and the exhaustion of natural resources - many of us are looking for ways to live more sustainably. But with so much information out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. While small changes in our daily habits can certainly help, creating lasting impact requires a shift in how we think about our consumption and waste.
This is where the 6 Rs of sustainability come into play. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Refuse, Repair, and Rethink offer a straightforward framework to help us minimize waste, lower our environmental footprint, and make smarter choices. Whether it’s opting for reusable over single-use items, repairing rather than discarding, or rethinking the way we consume, the 6 Rs empower us to take action that matters.
In this article, we examine the six Rs of sustainability, what they mean, and how can they help us build a more sustainable future.
What do we mean by sustainability? And why is it important?
Sustainability is a term that’s often used, but what does it actually mean in practical terms? We hear about sustainable fashion, food, and lifestyles everywhere - from the media to businesses and even governments. But when we talk about sustainability, we're addressing a concept that’s both broad and complex.
“ The term was first formally introduced in the 1987 Brundtland Report, Our Common Future, by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED). It defined sustainable development as "development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. ”
Since then, sustainability has been understood in a variety of ways, encompassing not only environmental impact but also social and economic dimensions. The key challenge has always been finding a balance - between protecting the planet, supporting social well-being, and promoting economic growth.
For many, the most immediate and actionable area to focus on is the environment. With global waste generation reaching new heights, the need to adopt sustainable practices has never been more urgent. For example, in 2024, studies revealed that over 350 million tons of plastic are produced annually, with only an estimated 9% being recycled. This means that most discarded plastic ends up in landfills or polluting the oceans. This has severe impacts on ecosystems, biodiversity, and human health.
This is where the 6 Rs of sustainability come into play. These principles offer a concrete framework to help us reduce waste, conserve resources, and make more mindful choices in our daily lives - actions that contribute directly to environmental sustainability. By focusing on reducing, reusing, and recycling, among other strategies, we can all take steps toward mitigating the damage done by overconsumption and waste.
Close
What are the 6 Rs of sustainability?
Sustainability is a broad concept, but when it comes to making real, everyday changes, frameworks like the 6 Rs can provide clear guidance. Many of us are already familiar with the 3 Rs - Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle - which aim to minimize waste by rethinking how we use and dispose of resources.
The 6 Rs build on this foundation by adding three more principles, creating a more comprehensive approach to sustainability. Let’s take a closer look at each of the 6 Rs and see how they can help us take more meaningful action toward a sustainable future.
Close
Rethink
Consumption is at an all-time high - whether it's meat, fast fashion, or the burning of fossil fuels. For too long we've lived as if the earth's resources are endless, but that's simply not the case. Natural resources are limited, and we need to preserve them for future generations.
“ According to the UN Environment Programme “The extraction of and processing of materials, fuels and food contribute half of global greenhouse gas emissions and over 90 percent of biodiversity loss and water stress. ”
This is why the first R, and the most important R, is Rethink. The concept of rethinking asks us to question our habits of consumption and to consider how this might impact the environment. A useful question to ask yourself is: Do I really need that?
How to apply Rethink in everyday life:
| Scenario | Rethink Action |
| Transport | Instead of driving, consider walking, cycling, or taking public transport. Carpool when possible. |
| Clothing | Ask yourself if you really need that new garment, or if you can repair and reuse the ones you already own. |
| Grocery Shopping | Avoid products wrapped in plastic packaging. Choose alternatives with minimal or no packaging. |
| Food Consumption | Rethink food waste. Can leftovers be turned into another meal or composted? Consider reducing meat consumption. |
| Technology & Electronics | Before upgrading devices, ask if your current ones are still functional. Recycle or donate old electronics instead of discarding them. |
| Energy Use | Turn off lights and electronics when not in use. Consider more energy-efficient alternatives for heating, cooling, and appliances. |
| Home Decor | Opt for second-hand or upcycled furniture instead of buying new. |
| Takeaway Food | Bring your own containers for takeout or opt for businesses that use sustainable packaging. |
| Water Consumption | Reduce water wastage by using water-saving fixtures and being mindful of your usage. |
On a larger scale, Rethink calls for a shift in how we view business, industry, and the economy. It challenges us to ask whether the way our economies function today aligns with long-term sustainability. Are industries that rely on finite resources truly viable? Are consumer-driven business models - based on endless growth and high consumption - sustainable?
This rethinking extends beyond just individual action. It invites us to advocate for changes within our communities, governments, and industries. It encourages the development of sustainable business practices, policies, and infrastructure that prioritize long-term environmental health over short-term profits. By demanding systemic change, we can help shift the broader narrative towards one that values sustainability and future-proof solutions.
Refuse
Refuse is the second R, and the next step after you stop and rethink. Refuse simply asks us to stop accepting the things that are harming our environment.
On an individual level, Refuse encourages us to stop purchasing and consuming things that we do not need. It asks us to consider whether the item is necessary or not, and if it's not, we should avoid purchasing or consuming it. Refusing can be a powerful way to reduce waste and prevent harm to the planet - ultimately cutting down on the demand for single-use, disposable products that burden our ecosystems.
“ In recent years, consumption has skyrocketed. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the average person is now buying 60% more clothing than 15 years ago, while each item is kept for only half as long. This rise in consumption, coupled with the fast turnover of products, contributes heavily to environmental degradation, waste, and resource depletion. ”
How to apply Refuse in everyday life:
| Scenario | Refuse Action |
| Single-Use Plastics | Say no to plastic bags, straws, and utensils. Opt for reusable alternatives like cloth bags, bamboo straws, and metal cutlery. |
| Takeaway Containers | Refuse disposable packaging by bringing your own containers for takeout food or choosing businesses that use compostable or reusable packaging. |
| Fast Fashion | Refuse impulse buys from fast fashion retailers. Instead, invest in quality, long-lasting clothing or opt for second-hand items. |
| Plastic Bottles | Refuse single-use plastic bottles. Use a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day. |
| Excessive Packaging | Refuse items with excessive packaging. Choose products with minimal or recyclable packaging or purchase in bulk to avoid excess plastic. |
| Food Waste | Refuse to over-purchase food, leading to waste. Buy only what you will use and focus on utilizing leftovers to reduce unnecessary waste. |
| Disposable Coffee Cups | Refuse disposable coffee cups and lids. Bring your own reusable coffee cup to your favorite café or opt for alternatives like bamboo or stainless steel mugs. |
| Fast Food Packaging | Refuse fast food packaging by avoiding drive-thru meals, where packaging is often unavoidable. Choose sit-down restaurants or take your own containers. |
| Beauty Products with Harmful Ingredients | Refuse beauty products that contain harmful chemicals. Choose eco-friendly and cruelty-free brands with minimal or reusable packaging. |
| Printed Materials | Refuse printed materials like flyers or pamphlets that you don’t need. Opt for digital alternatives to save paper and reduce waste. |
Refusing isn’t just about individual actions; it’s about creating a culture where companies and industries are encouraged to produce products that are more sustainable by default. The more we collectively refuse unnecessary products and packaging, the more businesses will adapt to the demand for greener alternatives.
Reduce
Reduce is the first R in the environmental trio (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle). It focuses on minimizing the amount of stuff we use, buy, and already own. The principle behind Reduce is simple: consume less, waste less. By cutting down on what we consume, we can decrease the strain on natural resources and reduce waste, which directly benefits the planet.
The impact of reducing consumption extends beyond just less waste - it helps conserve vital resources, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and supports a more sustainable future. For example, according to the World Resources Institute, around one-third of all food produced globally never gets eaten. More recent data suggests that up to 40% of food is lost or wasted along the value chain, highlighting a significant blind spot in global food systems. This loss not only wastes valuable resources like water and energy but also contributes to unnecessary environmental damage.
It’s not just about cutting back on items but also making more mindful, conscious choices that contribute to overall sustainability. Reducing food waste, for instance, can have a profound impact on reducing emissions and conserving resources, as well as addressing the global hunger crisis.
How to apply Reduce in everyday life:
| Scenario | Reduce Action |
| Water Usage | Take shorter showers, turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, and use water-efficient appliances. |
| Electricity Consumption | Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, use energy-efficient bulbs, and unplug electronics. |
| Food Waste | Plan meals ahead of time, store food properly, and use leftovers instead of ordering takeout. |
| Plastic Waste | Avoid plastic-wrapped goods, use reusable bags, and reduce reliance on single-use plastic packaging. |
| Clothing | Buy fewer clothes and focus on quality over quantity. Opt for timeless pieces instead of trendy, fast fashion. |
| Technology | Avoid upgrading gadgets unless necessary. Use devices until they no longer function and recycle electronics responsibly. |
| Car Usage | Walk, cycle, or take public transport instead of driving short distances. Carpool when possible. |
| Packaging | Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste, and choose items with minimal or eco-friendly packaging. |
| Consumer Goods | Only buy items you genuinely need, and avoid impulse purchases or items that won’t last. |
| Home Energy Use | Use a programmable thermostat, weatherproof your home to avoid energy waste, and switch to energy-efficient appliances. |
| Disposable Items | Choose reusable items over disposables—use cloth napkins, reusable straws, and reusable containers. |
| Diet | Reduce meat consumption, especially red meat, and focus on plant-based meals. |
By reducing, we’re making choices that align with the planet’s limits while helping us live more sustainably. The goal isn’t to completely eliminate our consumption, but to be more mindful about what we buy, use, and throw away.
Reuse
Reuse also belongs to the 3 Rs, and is all about finding ways to extend the life of the items we already own instead of discarding them. Rather than throwing something away, think about how you can give it a new purpose. This could mean repairing the item to use it in the same way, or finding an entirely new use for it. Alternatively, you can donate the item to a local charity, sell it on platforms like eBay, or pass it on to a friend who will make good use of it.
“ Reusing helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. It also saves you money since you don't need to buy a new item to replace something that still has value. ”
Repurposing is a great way to get creative. Ask yourself: What else could I turn this item into? For example, old jeans could be turned into a pair of shorts for summer, or worn-out jumpers could be transformed into a cozy quilt. There are endless ideas and how-to guides online to inspire you, so why not explore and get started on your own creative project?
How to apply Reuse in everyday life:
| Scenario | Reuse Action | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Clothing | Repair old clothes instead of throwing them away. Turn worn-out jeans into shorts or use fabric to make new items like bags or cushions. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Furniture | Refurbish old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or reupholster chairs instead of buying new pieces. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Packaging | Reuse boxes, jars, and containers for storage or organization. Use old newspapers for wrapping gifts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Electronics & Appliances | Repair malfunctioning electronics and appliances instead of replacing them,
By reusing items, we not only keep them out of landfills but also contribute to a culture of sustainability where waste is minimized, and resources are maximized.  RepairIn line with Reuse, Repair encourages us to fix broken things instead of discarding them, helping us reduce the demand for new products and conserve natural resources. Repairing what we already own is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of our belongings and reduce waste. “ When something you own breaks, don’t automatically think it’s time to replace it. Try to repair it first. If you can’t fix it yourself, there are many repair services available on the high street. For example, shoe repair shops, leather repair shops, and tailors can help restore your belongings. ” Even furniture and electronics don’t have to be considered disposable. For example, if your phone’s battery starts to fail, rather than purchasing a brand-new device, you can simply replace the battery, giving your phone a second life. Despite the benefits of repair, it’s often overlooked. According to recent research, fewer than one in 10 people in the UK attempt to repair or restore items when they break. This statistic highlights a growing tendency to replace rather than repair, contributing to unnecessary waste and resource consumption. The scale of this issue is evident when we look at the numbers: nearly 22 million small pieces of furniture, over 11,000 bicycles, and more than 28 million toys are discarded in the UK every year after becoming damaged. These items could easily be repaired, reused, or repurposed, saving valuable resources and reducing landfill waste. How to apply Repair in everyday life:
Repairing not only helps keep items out of landfills but also reduces the need for new resources to create replacement products. With so many repair services available, it’s easier than ever to breathe new life into old items, saving both money and the environment.  RecycleRecycling is the third and final "R" of the 3 Rs, and it's probably the one you're most familiar with. While the concept of recycling isn’t new, how we recycle can vary depending on the access we have to recycling facilities. In some areas, it’s as simple as putting recyclables at the curb, while in others, it might require a bit more effort. Even if your local council doesn’t collect recyclables, there are still plenty of ways you can do your part. “ Recycling involves returning items to an earlier stage in the production cycle, such as turning waste into raw materials for new products. It should be considered as a last resort - used when an item can't be reused or repurposed. That’s why recycling is the final step in the 6 Rs. ” The importance of recycling cannot be overstated. According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), municipal solid waste generation is predicted to grow from 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050. This growing volume of waste is placing enormous pressure on waste management systems and contributing to environmental damage. In 2020, the global direct cost of waste management was estimated at USD 252 billion. When factoring in the hidden costs of pollution, poor health, and climate change from poor waste disposal practices, the cost rises to USD 361 billion. If urgent action on waste management isn't taken, the cost could almost double to USD 640.3 billion by 2050. However, despite these growing challenges, many of us still aren't recycling enough. In the UK, just 44% of household waste is recycled, according to government statistics. In the US, the recycling rate has improved over the years, this is even lower at 32%. Clearly, there is significant room for improvement in recycling rates globally. By recycling, we reduce the demand for raw materials (recycled materials can be repurposed), minimize waste in landfills, and help keep our air and water cleaner. Every item we recycle is one less item sitting in a landfill, and one less resource extracted from the planet. Recycling also plays a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving energy, especially when materials like aluminum and paper are reused in the production process. So, how do you recycle? Many communities offer roadside recycling collections, making it easy for you to recycle paper, glass, and plastic. If this isn't an option, check for local recycling drop-off centers - many towns have dedicated facilities for recyclables. Some supermarkets also offer recycling services, particularly for items like electronic devices, batteries, and other hard-to-recycle items. However, it’s essential to remember that recycling alone is not enough to achieve sustainability. While recycling helps reduce waste, it’s just one piece of the puzzle. We must also prioritize the other Rs - reduce, reuse, refuse, rethink, and repair - to make a meaningful impact. Achieving sustainability requires a holistic approach, and recycling is just one step along the way. How to apply Recycle in everyday life:
 How businesses can apply the 6 Rs of sustainabilityWhile the 6 Rs are often discussed in terms of individual actions, they can also be applied on a larger scale within businesses to drive sustainability and reduce environmental impact. By incorporating these principles into business practices, companies can minimize waste, optimize resource usage, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Here’s how businesses can implement the 6 Rs:
Final Thoughts on the 6 Rs of sustainabilityIn today’s world, we’re surrounded by a culture of consumption. From fast fashion and convenience foods to disposable products and excess packaging, modern lifestyles are built on the constant acquisition of new things. While this system has driven economic growth, it has also led to a staggering amount of waste and environmental damage - air pollution, deforestation, and the depletion of our natural resources are just a few of the consequences we see daily. For individuals and businesses alike, the desire to make a difference is growing. People want to do better, to reduce their environmental footprint, and to live more sustainably. However, many feel overwhelmed by the scale of the issue and don’t know where to start. The good news is that the 6 Rs provide a simple yet powerful framework that can guide us in transforming our consumption habits and making more mindful decisions. The 6 Rs offer a practical, step-by-step approach for anyone looking to reduce their impact - whether it’s rethinking our relationship with resources, refusing unnecessary products, or recycling more effectively. It’s about taking small, manageable steps that add up over time. By adopting even a few of these principles in our daily lives, we can begin to shift the way we consume and the way we think about waste. “ In a world driven by consumption, changing our habits might feel like a daunting task. But the reality is that every conscious decision - whether it’s choosing to repair a broken item instead of replacing it, or refusing plastic packaging - is a step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Businesses too can benefit from embracing the 6 Rs, finding innovative ways to minimise waste and build more responsible practices into their operations. ” What about Greenly?The 6 Rs offer a solid framework for individuals and businesses looking to reduce their environmental footprint. However, for businesses, translating these principles into tangible actions often requires support, especially when it comes to understanding and reducing carbon emissions across your operations. This is where Greenly comes in. Our suite of carbon management services is designed to help businesses take the next step in their sustainability journey by tracking, managing, and reducing their carbon emissions. Here’s how Greenly can help:
By integrating Greenly into your sustainability strategy, businesses can ensure they’re equipped with the tools to make real, lasting change. Together, we can take practical steps towards a greener future. Get in touch with Greenly today to find out more. Sources:
More ArticlesView all The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)1 min Level In this article we’ll explore what the CBAM is, why it’s been created, and what importers need to know ahead of its introduction.  What is carbon management?1 min Level Carbon management strategically reduces the CO2 emissions of a business’s carbon footprint. Find out how businesses are adopting carbon management strategies.  What are the 3 Pillars of Corporate Sustainability?1 min Level What are the 3 pillars of corporate sustainability and why are they important? |