The 3Rs of Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, have now be expanded by some to 7Rs - Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Repair, Reuse, Rot, and Recycle! However many Rs you want to think about, they all apply equally well to gardening as to every other area of our lives. Organic gardeners will aim to use natural resources (e.g. wood and plant based materials instead of plastic), source locally (e.g. use an independent nursery rather than a chain garden centre), and generally reduce their carbon footprint.
Garden Organics 'Best Organic Practice' guidelines include the following :
Use of Energy
Use manual rather than powered tools
Buy second hand or sturdy, long lasting tools. Repair and recycle old tools
Use solar energy for lighting, water pumps and greenhouse ventilation
Use of Water

Add organic matter to soil to maximise water holding capacity
Sow or transplant just before rain is forecast
Water as little as possible, and preferably in the evening or at night
Apply water to the soil rather than foliage
Do not mow in dry conditions
Fill newly created ponds with rainwater
Use of Plastic
Use plastic like materials that are bio-degradeable and produced from plant substances
Use metal watering cans
Reuse any plastics you do have as often as you can
Take plastic pots and trays back to garden centres for recycling/reuse
Do not use trays or containers made from Styrene or Styrofaom, as these are potentially carcinogenic
Click here to read more on this topic
Use of Wood
Use stakes and plant supports made from wood cut from your own garden
Choose species of wood that are more resistant to rotting
Buy timber that is organically grown and locally sourced
Make sure any timber you buy is from a sustainable source, with accreditation from Forest Stewardship Council, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification or the Soil Association woodmark
Use and reuse second-hand and reclaimed timber
Do not use any wood that has been treated with creosote as it is potentially carcinogenic
Use Linseed Oil to treat wood
And finally, here are some more ideas from Garden Organic about being resourceful!
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