Reducing Waste
Plan meals and shopping lists to avoid buying excess food, store food correctly to extend its shelf life, repurpose leftovers into new meals, and serve appropriate portions.
Reusing Items
Reuse jars, bottles, and containers for storage; use vegetable scraps for homemade stock or composting; and reuse packaging materials where possible.
Recycling
Separate waste into recyclables, compostables, and non-recyclables, follow local recycling guidelines, and rinse containers before recycling to prevent contamination.
Composting
Use a compost bin for organic waste like fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells. Avoid composting meat, dairy, or greasy foods, as they attract pests, and balance nitrogen-rich “greens” with carbon-rich “browns”.
Disposing of Hazardous Waste
Dispose of batteries, chemicals, and certain cleaners according to local regulations, and never pour grease, oil, or chemicals down the drain, as it can cause plumbing issues.
Other Tips
- Support or participate in local food recovery programmes that redistribute surplus food.
- Use leftovers creatively and serve smaller portions to reduce waste.
- Periodically review how much waste your household generates and adjust habits accordingly.
