Reuse as much waste as you can

 

Reusing waste is better than recycling. For example, using a plastic container more than once:

• saves the raw materials and energy needed to make a new one
• is one less item that has to be transported
• is even better than recycling it! 

 

Think how to reuse what you already have

 

Try to buy materials you can use over and over again. You can also

• alter an item so that it can be used again (for example repairing an item)
• give things you don’t want any more to charity so someone else can use them.

 

Take advantage of local reuse organisations

There are lots of reuse organisations out there who will be able to use your unwanted materials or provide you with advice on how to cut down on waste. 

• Furniture reuse allows others to access usable furniture at an affordable price and saves this waste from ending up in landfill
• Reusable nappies offer a cost effective and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable nappies. 

 

Make the most of paper

You can:

• write on both sides of the paper (and then recycle it)
• make any scrap paper that you don’t need into a notebook
• reuse wrapping paper to wrap more presents or in an art project.

 

 

Buy recycled products

If you buy recycled products such as paper, you’ll be reusing materials, so they don’t have to be produced from scratch again.  By buying recycled products you are also ensuring that there is a market for the materials that you are separating out for recycling.  This is known as "closing the loop".