Reduce Waste

We've put together a list of tips to help you to reduce waste.

Rethink

When we think about waste, we might picture lots of packaging, but a lot of waste can be clothing, electronics and homewares etc.

We can reduce waste by first rethinking what we buy and only purchasing what we need.  

Before buying, can you ask yourself the following questions:  

  • Do I really need to buy this?
  • Can I use something I already have instead?
  • Could I borrow this from someone else?  
  • Is there a second-hand or rental option available?
  • Could I check a local Op Shop or local market for unique second-hand items
  • Can I search for items on buy, swap and sell platforms before buying new?

Reduce

Minimise single-use items and make the switch to reusable items:

  • Bring reusable and refillable items such as a drink bottle, coffee cup, container and/or cutlery when you’re on the go!
  • Keep reusable bags in your car or handbag – these can be used for all kinds of shopping – not just at the supermarket.
  • Test out local bulk-refill stores – there are more than a few across Baw Baw!
  • Make the switch at your next celebration or gathering. Swap balloons and glitter for more sustainable alternatives, such as bubbles and flowers.
  • Join Plastic Free July – and be part of the plastic pollution solution!  

Reduce food waste:

  • Allocate the top shelf in the fridge to leftovers and ‘eat first’ items
  • Check your pantry and plan meals with items you already have at home before heading to the shops. Then take a shopping list with you.
  • Eat leftovers once a week – that’s an easy night of meal preparation!

Reuse

  • Check if you can borrow something from your friends, family, neighbours and community.
  • Council’s Environmental Rebate for compost bins and warm farms. (Please note, this will be updated and renamed to the ‘Reduce, Reuse, Recycle rebate’ prior to the introduction of FOGO). The rebate will be extended to include reusable sanitary and incontinence products, and reusable nappies and nursing products.
  • Visit your local Myli - My Community Library to borrow books.
  • Check out the Myli - Library of Things which includes items such as:
    • Re-useable Party Kit
    • A range of sporting equipment
    • A selection of electrical items  
  • Join a local toy library instead of buying new toys.
  • Host a Garage Sale or donate, sell or give away your unwanted household items.
  • See if you can gift, repair or repurpose an item – this could be a chance to upcycle or give something new life!

Recycle

Related Information

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