Packaging

A lot of waste is generated by buying items with too much packaging.

Not everything we buy can be re-used or recycled so it is important to think about how to reduce buying over packaged items when we go shopping. This will help us produce less waste when we get home and can even save us money.

Changing the way you shop

Reducing packaging is about changing our purchasing decisions and habits. Purchasing locally produced goods from a Farmer’s Market where less packaging is used or buying items loose at the supermarket are good ways of reducing the amount of waste we make.

Having a milkman deliver milk in glass bottles is another easy step to making less waste. Did you know that on average a milk bottle from a milkman is reused 20 times before it is recycled? To find your local milkman visit www.findmeamilkman.net

 
Easy steps to reduce packaging

1. Buy fruit and vegetables loose - Mother Nature gave them their own packaging but keep them in loosely tied bags in the fridge to reduce the chance of them going bad early. This way you reduce the amount of packaging and food waste going into your bin.
2. Washing detergents, herbs and spices, coffee and handwash are all availabe as refills to help you cut down on the amount of packaging you throw away.
3. Instead of buying individually wrapped, buy everyday items in bulk if you can use them or store them effectively – remember to check storage instructions.
4. Buy concentrated. Concentrated squashes and fabric conditioners last longer and save you money.
5. Consider buying someone an ‘experience gift’ or ask them what they want. Many unwanted presents end up in the bin.
6. Avoid disposable items like paper plates, razors, batteries (try rechargeable batteries).
7. Ask yourself if the packaging can be reused or recycled and avoid buying items in packaging which is difficult to recycle.
8. When making a large or specialist purchase (for example a large electrical item), try to find an item that can be repaired rather than thrown away in the event of failure.

For more top packaging tips to tackle packaging click here. You can also visit the recycle now website to find out more on what packaging does and what is being done to reduce it.
 

Our Factsheet - We have  developed a factsheet to help you reduce the amount of packaging you throw away. Download the packaging factsheet and reduce unwanted packaging.