Imagine a World Without Waste
Wouldn't it be great if we lived in a world without waste?
Well, we can if we use the waste hierarchy to help us make the right decisions when it comes to waste.
This Recycle Week, Veolia is asking residents to learn about the Waste Hierarchy is and how each element can help look at waste differently.
Click on the animations below to find out more.
Think you're ready for the 7 Day Recycle Week Challenge?
Take on our challenge to show that small actions really can make a big difference.
Each day try out a new tip or task that will help you recycle more and make a bigger environmental impact! Are you up for the challenge?
Day 1: Add recycling bins around your home
Put separate recycling bins in different rooms in the house - not just the kitchen.
Lots of people have separate places for rubbish and recycling in the kitchen, because food tins, vegetable peelings, and plastic trays are often what we think of when we think about recycling. However, don’t forget cardboard toilet rolls and empty shampoo bottles are great recyclable items too! Don’t miss out on the chance to recycle more, by putting recycling bins in the bathroom or bedroom.
Day 2: Check your local council’s website
Are you “wish-cycling”? If you put non-recyclable items into your recycling bins in the hope that they will be recycled, this is called “wish cycling” and is actually more harmful to the process. When recycling is too contaminated (it has too many items that are not recyclable) it can’t be recycled - so make sure you are checking what can and cannot be recycled in your area. The best way to find out is to check your local council website for all the right information.
Day 3: Can’t recycle it at home? Take it to a recycling centre
If you find out that something you use can’t be recycled from home, don’t be put off! There are lots of recycling avenues you could explore. See what your local recycling centre can recycle, they have so many bays that there’s sure to be the one you need! Plus they take batteries, furniture and often have reuse shops to help give items a second lease of life!
Day 4: Empty, rinse, recycle repeat!
Food and drink residue can contaminate recyclable items, so it’s important to empty containers and rinse them before putting them in your recycling. You don’t need to machine wash them, but a quick rinse to remove the last bits of marmalade in the jar can really help the recycling process.
Day 5: Always check for recycling opportunities when you're out and about
It can be easy to forget to recycle when you’re not at home, but it's important to do the right thing whether you’re at the office, the park, or walking around town. It goes without saying, but littering is the worst thing you can do with your waste - you never know what harm it could cause to wildlife, as well as being an eyesore for your community. Try to find a recycling bin or keep it with you to recycle at home later.
Day 6: Recycle/upcycle items and learn new skills
Give pre-loved items a second chance! If you’re redecorating a room, don’t throw out your picture frames if they no longer match - give them a lick of paint and reuse them. If you have an old T-shirt that’s past its best, use the fabric to make a pillowcase. There are hundreds of ideas to avoid throwing valuable materials away - so get creative!
Day 7: Shop savvy to avoid non-recyclable items
Next time you’re buying groceries, try to buy fruit and vegetables loose to avoid plastic packaging and always remember to bring a reusable bag with you to carry them home. In other stores, try to buy items made from recycled materials, like notepads, or choose items with less plastic packaging. That way you can cut down on what ends up in your rubbish bin!