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Reducing Waste

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Resident using a recycling bank

Reducing Waste

Reducing waste is at the top of the waste hierarchy. The less waste we produce, the fewer natural resources we are using in the first instance, and the less waste we have to dispose of or recycle. By minimising waste we can usually save money as well!

Here are some ideas:

Buy...

  • in bulk, concentrated products or refillable packets
  • loose fruit and vegetables rather than heavily packaged alternatives
  • durable goods rather than disposable alternatives, such as nappies, razors
  • rechargeable batteries and washable handkerchiefs
  • store food in resealable containers rather than using foil or cling film

Real Nappies...         

Did you know? By the time every baby has been potty trained, most parents will have completed between 4000 and 6000 nappy changes.
Real nappies not only reduce the amount of waste that is sent to landfill but can save you £100's, if not £1000's, especially if you use the nappies again for a second child.

  • Help and Support: Contact the Oxfordshire Real Nappy Network (Co-ordinator) or telephone 01865 880952
  • Laundry Service: Visit Nappy Tales or telephone 01235 812747
  • For details of local cloth nappy contacts, nappy laundry services and where to buy real nappies you can also telephone the Real Nappy Help Line - 0845 850 0606 or visit the Nappy Finder

Stop junk mail...

  • Register with the Mail Preference Service or call 0845 703 4599 to reduce the amount of unwanted junk mail through your door - your name will be removed from up to 95% of Direct Mail Lists.

Use cloth shopping bags...

  • Or choose the 'bag for life' scheme operating at most supermarkets to reduce the amount of plastic carrier bags used.


Some items of waste are unavoidable. However, they may be suitable for reuse or recycling.

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Last reviewed 18 August 2008

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http://www.westoxon.gov.uk/environment/reducingwaste.cfm printed 28 August 2008 by 38.103.63.61