Which principle focuses on minimizing resource consumption?

The principle that emphasizes minimizing resource consumption is indeed the one that encourages reduction in usage from the start rather than dealing with waste at the end. By focusing on reducing resource consumption, organizations and individuals can proactively limit waste generation and decrease the overall demand for resources. This principle advocates for making conscious choices about what is necessary, ultimately striving to use fewer materials and energy for the same output.

While recycling, reconnecting, and redesigning can play important roles in overall resource efficiency and sustainability, they generally come into play after resources have already been consumed or processed. Reducing usage, on the other hand, aims directly at cutting down consumption at the source, which is critical for sustainable practices and environmental protection.