Reduce

Tips to reduce waste at home

Plan a shopping list to avoid impulsive purchases
Bring a reusable shopping bag to reduce usage of plastic or paper bags
Purchase items
- with less packaging
- that will last longer
- that are refillable
- that will not go out of fashion quickly
Borrow, share or hire things that are only needed occasionally
Store perishable food in the refrigerator
Cook just sufficient food for meals
Minimise the use of disposable wares, e.g. disposable forks, spoons, cups
Pack meals in reusable containers
Opt for electronic statements/newsletters
In the absence of electronic mail, request for only a set of newsletter/flyer from sender if a few members of the household receive the same reading materials
Contact sender to remove address from mailing list to prevent junk mail
Use rag instead of paper tissue or wet wipes for cleaning

Tips to reduce waste at work

Proofread documents on screen before printing
Print on both sides of paper
Circulate written or printed memos
Flash reference materials during meetings on screen instead of printing them for distribution
If print copies are needed, make few copies of a document for sharing
Subscribe to electronic mailing whenever possible
Avoid the use of disposable items
Do not ask for plastic carriers if packet food can be held in hand
Bring own reusable lunchbox and cutlery for takeaways
Bring own mug to meetings to reduce use of plastic or Styrofoam cups
Order just adequate drinks and food for meeting, seminars, conference and events
Buy longer-lasting & useful items as corporate gifts

Tips to reduce waste at school

Pin notices onto notice boards instead of making copies for distribution
Purchase devices and stationery that are durable
Purchase refillable stationery
Write/Print on both sides of the paper
Avoid over-catering food and drinks for school activities and events
Use refillable soap and drinks dispensers instead of prividing individual packets