Thursday, 7 August 2008
Reduction, or as it is sometimes called waste minimisation, is the first step towards reducing the amount of waste being produced. There are numerous ways in which you can take practical action to reduce the amount of waste generated in your household which may even save you money:
— Make a shopping list so you only buy what you actually need and try not to cook more food than is actually required.
— Re-use paper or plastic carrier bags and take your own durable shopping bag with you.
— Choose items which are not heavily packaged. For example, buy loose fruit and vegetables.
— Where possible, purchase refillable containers.
— If refillable containers are not available, try to purchase goods in large containers rather than multi-packs containing single portions like breakfast cereals and drinks.
— Use a milk bottle delivery service.
— Avoid disposable products such as nappies, razors, plastic or paper cups and plates, plastic cutlery, cameras, tissues, etc.
— Try to use rechargeable batteries where possible.
— Buy durable goods such as long-life energy saving light bulbs.
— Contact the Mailing Preference Service to remove your name from most mailing lists and reduce the amount of junk mail received.
— Avoid using cling film, plastic food bags and aluminium foil by using airtight containers such as empty ice cream cartons to store food in, or for packed lunches.
— Place a note by your letter box stating "no unsolicited mailshots".
— Try to buy products made from recycled materials.
— Join your local library to avoid the need to purchase your own copy of a book or newspaper.
— Use a refillable ink pen rather than a biro.
— Hire equipment such as hedge-trimmers and other DIY tools that you will only use occasionally or consider sharing them with friends, relatives or neighbours.
