How can I reduce my waste?

REDUCE PACKAGING

• Try to buy items with less packaging
• Reuse food containers to store food instead of using cling film or foil.

SHOP GREENER

• Choose longer-life products, for example, by checking guarantee periods or use-by dates
• See what you can buy second-hand, at charity shops and online
• If you can, try buying liquids and dry goods in refillable cartons that you can use again and again.

REDUCE FOOD WASTE

• Plan your meals by looking at what you already have in your fridge and cupboards, then make a shopping list and stick to it
• Keep fruit and vegetables in the fridge and ‘stay fresh’ bags to help them last longer.

USE THE SHARE AND REPAIR NETWORK

• If you need to get hold of things like DIY tools, kitchen utensils, or outdoor equipment, instead of buying new, look into borrowing them through the Share & Repair Network.

1. Choose firmer fruits and vegetables loose rather than pre-packed (it's often cheaper and reduces packaging waste).

2. Go for local produce. Local farms regularly deliver produce boxes.

3. Try to avoid buying multi-packs that have layers of packaging.

4. Buy liquids and dry goods, like cereals and soap powder, in bulk using refillable containers.

5. Use a refillable water bottle instead of bottled water.

6. Download music and films instead of buying CDs and DVDs.

7. Use both sides if you have to print documents and refill toner cartridges.

8. Stop junk mail – register with the Mailing Preference Service.

9. Buy reused or recycled products whenever possible.

10. Use rechargeable batteries instead of single-use ones and recycle your batteries when you're finished with them.