Materials and waste in Bend play a significant role in the climate impact of our community. Greenhouse gas emissions are produced throughout every stage of a materials life cycle, from production to disposal. Waste that gets sent to the landfill generates 2% of the total greenhouse gas emissions that are emitted locally by the Bend community. When the upstream emissions are included, such as those that are generated during the production and transport of materials and products, the impact increases substantially. When considering these sources of emissions, called “consumption-based emissions,” they contribute 47% of the total greenhouse gas emissions from the community!

Preventing waste has a greater positive impact than recycling, composting, or other methods of waste management. Since waste is generated throughout the community, including through individual households and businesses, it’s important for everyone to do their part to prevent waste. Preventing waste can happen by reducing what we consume and by re-using things before purchasing new.

Help reduce Bend’s climate impact by encouraging waste prevention in your own life!