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5 easy steps to reduce waste

1

Stop unwanted mail

To stop receiving unsolicited advertising mail, contact the Mailing Preference Service and Royal 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.

2

Think before you shop

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.

3

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 or Freegle.

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.

4

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.

5

Re-paint

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

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The Waste and Resources Action Programme (which operates as WRAP) is a registered UK Charity No. 1159512 and registered as a Company limited by guarantee in England & Wales No. 4125764.

Registered office at Second Floor, Blenheim Court, 19 George Street, Banbury, Oxon, OX16 5BH.