Reduce Waste

We all know that our landfills won’t last forever. Who would want them to anyway? They are unsightly and let’s face it, rather smelly. Although alternative measures are being explored and investigated for the future, we have to deal with the now.

Changing the way we think about waste is a simple step in the lengthy and difficult process of changing our habits. Once you start, however, you will find it rewarding and above all easy. We have therefore produced a simple list of actions to get you started.

• Shop smartly and try not to buy produce that has too much packaging. For example buy loose fruit and vegetables.
• Purchase 'bags for life' and use these each time you go shopping.
• Use paper on both sides.
• Avoid disposable or single-use items such as napkins, razors, plastic cutlery, cameras and batteries etc.
• Use boxes with lids to store things, rather than using foil or cling film.
• Buy in bulk and use refills.
• Visit the Mailing Preference Service to reduce your junk mail or call 0845 703 4599 to register.
• Opt out of receiving the BT phone book by calling 0800 833 400 and to opt out of the Yellow Pages ring 0800 671 444.

There are other sources of information on how to further reduce your domestic or indeed work-related waste. Our own Rubbish, Waste and Recycling is a good start. However, if you would like to know more just google the term reducing waste and you will be surprised how many returns you will get.