We cannot stop waste production entirely, but everyone can make a significant contribution. Think before you bin! It saves energy and natural resources, helps to reduce pollution and reduces the need for landfill.
Reduce
Avoid giving presents with excess packaging.
Have a go at making your own presents or cards
Consider using doorstep delivery services for organic vegetables, milk and other fresh produce - goods often come in little or returnable packaging Buy solar-powered items such as pocket calculators and watches.
Choose products that can use mains power rather than batteries Use rechargeable batteries when appropriate.
Consider growing your own vegetables - many varieties can be grown in small gardens.
Reuse
Donate unwanted furniture and appliances to a furniture reuse scheme
Repair broken items rather than buy new ones
Take old carrier bags to the shop with you to use again or use them as bin liners
Scrap paper can be used both sides, for children's drawings, shopping lists
Re-use containers like margarine tubs for storage of nails or colouring pencils
Donate unwanted clothing and small household items to charity shops and jumble sales.
Recycle
If you can, compost your garden waste and vegetable peelings or take your garden waste to a recycling centre
Use local recycling facilities such as glass bottle banks, plastic bottle banks, can banks, shoe banks, textile banks etc
Participate in any recycling service your district or borough council may offer from your home. Recycle your empty ink and toner cartridges.
Look for the recycled option in all the products you buy Recycle old newspapers laying around the office.
