04 Nov How to Reduce Waste
When it comes to waste, most of us understand the basics of recycling. However, do we think about where our waste ends up and the impact of our waste on the environment?
Recycling is one of the easiest ways to feel as though you are being environmentally conscious with your waste management – whilst it is certainly beneficial, it is not the only method. Did you know that reducing the amount of waste is equally as important in creating a sustainable future?
It may not seem like a dramatic step towards improved waste management in Essex, but if everybody became more aware of how much waste they are producing, then collectively we can make a great change to support our planet. By reducing the amount of waste, we can help to protect the environment, lessen pollution emissions, limit the amount of rubbish in landfill, preserve natural resources as well as save money.
Understanding
To begin with, it is important to understand how much you are wasting in the first place. There are footprint calculators available to find out which simple changes you can make to help diminish the amount of waste you are producing – click here to use the WWF Footprint Calculator. You should think about belongings that you truly want and need, so that less unwanted products are thrown away to improve our waste management in Essex.
Stop Wasting Plastics
By 2050, there could potentially be more plastic in the ocean than fish! We cannot let this continue. You should refuse to use single-use disposable items and try to use sustainable alternatives. For example, use re-usable bottles instead of plastic water bottles, or use bags for life rather than the traditional plastic carrier bags.
Food Waste
Astoundingly, one third of food produced for human consumption is either lost or wasted! However, reducing the amount of wasted food is easy. Some simple ways include freezing fresh food so that it can be consumed at a later date, buying loose produce so you only purchase the exact amount that you require, or being a bit more creative with your leftovers!
One of the main drivers for biodiversity loss is the production of food. We need to work together to reduce the amount of food wasted and start eating more ingredients that conserve our rainforests and wildlife. If we become resourceful with our food, it is possible to make simple and quick meals from unprocessed and unpackaged foods, helping to minimise both wasted food as well as plastic packaging.
Another way to reduce organic waste reaching landfill sites is to compost it at home. Composting is the natural process of recycling natural matter into valuable fertiliser to enrich the soil and plants. Any organic material that naturally decomposes is sped up by the process of composting as it provides the ideal environment for decomposing organisms to function. Composting food waste provides a range of benefits, including improving soil health, recycling nutrients, reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as conserving water from agricultural developments.
Wasting Money
One of our most powerful tools is money. We come across numerous choices daily, and one of which that should be promoted is the purchase of sustainable and ethical products. Supporting small, local businesses can help your community thrive and boost its economy whilst also reducing pollution emissions, making the world a healthier place to live.
Buying fewer, but higher quality items can also help to lessen waste. If products are multi-functional, repairable or more durable, then in the long-term we should see less waste reaching landfill sites.
Energy Production from Waste
Today, the UK is producing 42% less emissions compared to that in 1990, mainly due to the increase in renewable energy sources. Despite this, there is still a journey ahead to reach the government’s target of net zero by 2050.
Smart meters are a good way to keep track of the amount of energy that you are using. They are helping to decarbonise our electricity grid, supporting the transition to making the UK’s energy more sustainable.
At Indaver, our facilities provide a renewable alternative to fossil fuels to power our homes and properties. We convert residual, unrecyclable waste into clean energy through sustainable waste management in Essex.
Contact Us
If you would like to know more about waste management in Essex or our energy production from waste services, then please don’t hesitate to contact us! Call Indaver on 01279 311440 or email us at info@rivenhall-iwmf.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.
