Reducing your waste is the first step in reducing the amount of rubbish you send to landfill.  

• Reduce -  to prevent waste before it’s created e.g. stop junk mail.

The amount of rubbish we produce in Wakefield is increasing every year. By reducing your waste the need for landfill is minimised, saving space and reducing pollution.   

You can reduce your waste by: 

• Buy goods with minimum packaging such as loose vegetables, fruit and meat products rather than buying pre-packed.
  
  
• Plan your meals in advance and write a list so you know exactly what you need when you go shopping and don't buy extra. Remember don't go shopping when you are hungry it always makes you buy more than you need.
  
  
• Don't be caught out by 2 for 1 offers on items that go off easily. Only buy what you need.
  
  
• Don't forget to reuse your carrier bags so you don't need to get new ones. Take your own recycled bag if you have one.
  
  
• Buy bigger boxes of the non-perishable foods that you eat lots of, like cereals and biscuits. You will reduce the number of boxes you throw away and save money.
  
  
• Avoid using cling film and aluminium for storing food.  Instead put it in reusable boxes with lids or reuse margarine and other containers.
  
  
• Concerned about use by dates why not visit the Love food hate waste website for hints on how best to use the food you have in your fridge or cupboards.
  
  
• Reduce the number of batteries you throw away by using either the mains electricity supply or buying rechargeable batteries.
  
  

• Use the Mail Preference Service to stop junk mail.  This free service lets you remove your name from most mailing lists in the country. It only takes a couple of minutes to fill in the form. Visit www.mpsonline.org.uk