The R's have been shortened into meaninglessness probably because they don't comport with capitalism _so hard_.

To do better by the environment, first you REDUCE what you take from it; in our society, this means don't buy things unless you really need. If you have to acquire something, REUSE it as much as possible. Repurpose, mend, repair. Only when you've practiced both of those fully and you no longer need the object should you try to RECYCLE.

Recycling is literally the third best thing you can do can do to minimize your impact. It's also the first least-worst thing you can do for the environment.