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Waste prevention
Waste prevention should always be the first step in waste management. Rather than thinking ‘what bin should I put this item in?’, think ‘did I really need this item in the first place?’.
By not generating waste, we can eliminate the need to handle, transport, treat and dispose of waste. We can also avoid having to pay for these services. So next time you shop, think about the waste that you are not only paying for once, but twice as you pay for its disposal later.
TIPS TO SLIM YOUR BIN
(click here for more slim your bin tips)
1. Buy only what you need. Although this may sound obvious, it is amazing how much ‘stuff’ we buy that we don’t really need. On average, we throw away 30% of all the food we buy.
2. Buy loose rather than pre-packed items, such as fruit, meat and cheese. Weigh vegetables separately but put them all in one bag. Avoid non-recyclable polystyrene trays.
3. Say no to items you are not going to use, e.g. napkins, straws, plastic utensils, condiments.
4. Choose durable goods over disposable ones - such as razors, cups, plates, cloths and napkins.
5. Return all junk mail to sender. Unsuscribe to many national mailing lists by contacting the Irish Direct Marketing Service.
6. Bring a lunchbox to school/work instead of using foil or cling film.
7. Always carry a reusable shopping bag with you – avoid plastic bags and don't accept every paper bag you are offered.
8. Use rechargeable batteries.
9. Choose reusable nappies.
10. Drink tap water instead of bottled water - keep a jug in the fridge.
11. Maintain and repair – it will cost you less in the long run
12. Leave newspaper supplements you are not going to read in the shop.