Reduce: it's the first "R" in "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle", and it's maybe the most important step in the process.  Businesses and organizations can easily reduce the amount of waste generated; doing so will save money and resources.

Depending on what type of business or organization it is, there are many opportunities to cut back in the first place.  Some examples of areas where waste can be prevented are:

• Purchasing--supplies, furniture, etc. can be made from recycled content and purchased in bulk or with the least amount of packaging available
• Paper vs. electronic mail--try emailing documents rather than printing; if you do use paper look for recycled content paper and/or FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified
• Printing and copying--consider duplex printing where you print on both sides of the sheet of paper, it will save an incredible amount of paper and money
• Cleaning products--many "green" cleaners are on the market that are nontoxic and biodegradable, better for health and disposal