How to Reduce Waste and Your Environmental Footprint

It’s our responsibility to minimize the waste we produce for the sake of future generations and the planet. In today's era of single-use products and disposable items, it can be overwhelming to know where to start in reducing our carbon footprint. However, recycling not only helps the environment—it can save you money too!

Furniture Recycling and Upcycling

Before you dispose of old furniture, consider upcycling! The upcycling industry is booming. Can you repurpose or resell it? If you're not up for a DIY project, donating it to charity shops can help those in need and reduce landfill waste. Many charities are in desperate need of furniture donations due to a decline in cash donations.

Clothing Recycling

If you have clothing you rarely wear, why not sell it on platforms like Vinted or donate it to a local charity? Many areas have clothes banks, and by recycling clothing in good condition, you reduce waste and may even earn a little extra cash.

Towels, Bedding, and Duvet Donations

Old towels, bedding, and duvets don’t have to end up in the trash. Many animal rescues gladly accept these items for bedding and care.

Cardboard Recycling and Repurposing

Old cardboard boxes can be reused for storage or gardening. Did you know that cardboard can be used in raised beds? It’s also perfect for creating cat forts! If you can't repurpose them, make sure to place them in your recycling bin.

Reuse Glass Jars and Bottles

Before throwing away glass jars and bottles, give them a thorough wash and dry. You can sell or give them away on marketplaces or local groups. By sterilizing them, they can also be reused at home for storage or food preservation.

Reducing Food Waste

The amount of food waste we generate is astonishing. Although food waste is biodegradable, it still contributes to CO2 emissions and greenhouse gases. Consider the entire production process, from the water and fuel used in farming to transportation. Here are some tips to reduce your food waste:

• Buy local: Support local growers and farmers markets to reduce your food's environmental impact.
• Meal planning: Helps avoid excess food waste.
• Freeze fresh produce before it goes bad.
• Compost food scraps to create natural fertilizer for your garden (vegetation only, no meat).
• Donate to food banks: Reduce landfill waste by giving surplus food to those in need.

Recycling Electrical Items

Recycling electrical items can be tricky. Not all charities can accept or sell items that haven't been safety-checked, but it’s always worth asking. Under the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations 2013, retailers must offer ways for customers to dispose of old electricals when purchasing new items. Check with your local council for guidelines on how to dispose of electronic waste.

Understanding DIY Waste Disposal Rules

Changes to UK legislation in 2023 allow householders to make four trips per month to dispose of DIY waste like baths or doors free of charge. Each trip can include one large item or two 50-litre sacks. Any more than that is considered chargeable waste. Be aware that plasterboard must be separated from other waste before disposal.

Scrap Metal Collection

Scrap metal is in high demand by waste carriers and should always be collected for free. Scrap metal is recycled by melting it down and selling it to manufacturers.

Your Duty of Care as a Householder

The Householder Duty of Care regulation (2005) makes it your responsibility to ensure that any waste carrier you employ is licensed. Always check that the business or person you hire to collect your waste is a registered waste carrier by verifying their license with the Environment Agency.