Minimising Waste

Waste minimisation

The most effective way to cut waste is to reduce what we use in the first place. Reusing materials is the next most effective habit and then recycling brings up the rear, as it often involves using natural resources (for example fuel is needed for power to manufacture new products). Here are some ways to help you reduce and reuse.

Reduce

Stop unwanted mail – register with Mailing Preference Service at www.mpsonline.org.uk, tel 0845 703 4599
Avoid over packaging: buy food loose or buy concentrated products
Re-use plastic carrier bags and use your own long-life shopping bags
Use solar or mechanical power: wind-up radios and toys or solar-powered calculators and lights
Hire goods and buy gift experiences
Home composting turns your garden waste and kitchen waste into a useful product for your garden

Reuse

Use reusable shopping bags – reuse supermarket carrier bags
Buy reusable alternatives: eg real nappies
Buy products made from recycled materials
Use refillable products
Use rechargeable batteries
Reuse envelopes
Reuse food containers and drinks bottles for storing food and liquids
Pass books on to friends or charity shops
Alter clothes for a fashion update
Donate furniture to: Home Basics Tel 01896 870355 or Berwickshire Furniture Restoration Co Ltd Tel 01361 884886

More information on charity shops and reuse projects in the Scottish Borders in the Generous Scottish Borders charity guide.

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