5 simple ways to reduce your waste

Everybody wants to reduce waste and the power of the internet and apps has helped us but there is still millions of tons of waste produced each day. Here is a few simple ways you can reduce the waste and even help your community.

Stop unwanted mail

You can contact the Mailing Preference Service and Royal Mail to stop receiving unsolicited advertising mail. Be aware when giving your name and address; ensure you indicate you don’t want your details to be used for future promotions or passed to other marketing agencies.

Your rubbish is another person’s treasure!

Contact your local Furniture Re-use Network – they distribute unwanted furniture and household goods to those in need. Or advertise your old furniture in your local paper or on websites such as Freecycle orFreegle.

Having a clear out? Donate good quality clothing, books and unwanted gifts to charity shops. Alternatively use the clothing banks at your local recycling centre.

Change your buying habbits

Before you shop, think about how you could reduce your waste. For example, you could buy things with less packaging, or second-hand items.

Can you buy something that will last longer rather than a disposable item? Rechargeable batteries are cheaper than disposables, and they can be used again and again – and using real crockery and cutlery for your parties instead of disposable ones can make a real difference.

To avoid taking home more carrier bags, choose reusable shopping bags: keep them in the car boot or pop a folded cotton bag in your handbag or pocket so you always have one to hand.

Re-paint

Donate left-over paint to your local charity. To find your nearest scheme visit Community Repaint.

Avoid wasting food

Every year in the UK we throw away £12.5 billion worth of good food, costing the average family almost £60 a month.

To find out useful tips on the storage of food, tantalising recipes and advice on portioning and meal planning, visit Love Food Hate Waste.

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