Everyone has a role to play in the protection of the environment. We can all make a difference by making some small changes to the way in which we dispose of our waste. Here are some useful reduce, reuse and recycle tips to help get you started!

Reduce Tips

• Reduce the amount of junk mail you receive by registering with the Mailing Preference Service on 0845 7034599. Visit www.mps-online.org.uk  
• Say 'no thanks' to a plastic carrier bag when out shopping. Bring your own with you!
• Choose products with minimal packaging that can be returned for recycling.
• Use products with a longer life. Low energy light bulbs last up to eight times longer.
• Reduce pollution at no extra cost by switching to EcoEnergy.

Reuse Tips

• Whenever possible, buy refillable or reusable containers. Avoid containers that can only be thrown away.
• Purchase durable goods of quality rather than disposable items and save money in the long run.
• Fix repairable items by bringing them to your nearest repair shop or reseller.
• Bring unwanted clothes to a charity shop or put them in a textile bank at your nearest community recycling point.

Recycle Tips

• Collect all your glass bottles and jars, plastic bottles, cans, newspapers and textiles. Take these to your nearest community recycling point. 
• Wash and squash your metal cans and plastic bottles. Remove all lids and tops. Rinse your bottles and jars.
• Use a home compost bin to convert garden and kitchen scraps into fertiliser.
• If you have a kerbside box, make sure you set it out each week and follow the instructions carefully.
• Buy recycled products and support the market for recycled materials.
  

If you would like to find out some more handy reduce, reuse and recycle tips, contact the Council's Technical Services Department on 028 4066 0604 to request a free copy of 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - An Easy Household Guide'.