The prefix re indicates the repetition or resumption of something. Therefore, reuse means to reuse or use something. In this sense, if an object is reused, it means that after having been used there is the possibility of using it again.
Reuse or refuse
These two words can come to get confusedThey are both pronounced the same way. However, it is about completely different terms. When it appears without h it indicates that something is used again, while with interspersed h it expresses that something is rejected, dismissed or eluded. In ordinary language we say that “the manager refused the proposal of his superiors because it seemed insufficient.”
The new use of things and planned obsolescence
In our society, the objects that are produced are designed to be used and thrown away. This phenomenon is due to an idea: planned obsolescence. Somehow, everything we use (especially technological gadgets) have been designed to have a limited use in time and, therefore, are obsolescent. However, the negative effects of “throw away” and obsolescence are evident:
1) excessive consumerism that affects the economy of individuals,
2) an increase in disposable materials with a contaminating potential and
3) a false feeling that raw materials are unlimited.
For these reasons, in recent years some people try to give new uses to discarded objects or make new things made from recycled material.
Most of the things we throw away can be used again for another purpose. Two conditions are necessary for this:
1) become aware of the usefulness of recycling and
2) be creative to reuse apparently useless objects.
The importance of recycling
Recycling is an easy solution to reuse industrially created materials. In this way, the paper, cardboard, plastic or glass that normally ends up in the garbage can have a new use if it is properly transformed in a recycling plant.
Recycling has two fundamental purposes:
1) reducing the consumption of raw materials and energy and
2) the reduction of water and air pollution.
It must be remembered, on the other hand, that when talking about reusing materials, reference is made to three ideas, known as the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
Photos: Fotolia – leszekglasner / Andrey Tovstyzhenko