The first R is reduce. The second is reuse, the last is recycle. I saw a comment below on the plastic bags and OP’s response. If you’re not already doing everything you can to prevent bringing home the nasties in the first place, re-up your reusable bags and containers efforts. I love my Sierra Club four pack of nylon grocery bags, they pack up small and have their own case, I’ve had them with me for about 5 years now, and you’re supporting a good cause with your purchase. For reusing the plastic bags that you do have- you can crochet them into more durable reusable totes. There are a lot of online videos. Also, I’ve become very aware of the end product of my convenience drinks, if I have to have a single serve container of something, I won’t be purchasing a plastic bottle, glass is ok, especially if I feel I have a good use for the bottle after it’s empty if it’s beverage. But the adage of “once an aluminum can, always an aluminum can,” is one that I adhere to as that recycling loop is localized, and monetarily incentivized. This website does a great job of looking into aluminum cans http://www.designlife-cycle.com/aluminum-soda-cans/ Finally, I started purchasing my coffee in the metal cans so that I cut out the coffee bag purchase, and I then have a reusable container to take to my bulk foods places.