Ipswich City Council

Waste

Tips for Shopping Smart

Of course, we all need to buy some things from the shops but we can make the right choice and reduce the rubbish we produce!! Here are some Smart Shopping tips:

Packaging makes up a large proportion of household waste and is often unnecessary. Try and buy products that have less packaging on them. Less packaging = less waste. Also, try and buy products that have packaging that can be recycled.
Try and buy in bulk wherever possible. One large packet has less waste than two smaller ones so buy the largest size of the products you use all the time. Not only does this often work out cheaper, but it will also reduce the amount of rubbish produced.
For example, imagine how much rubbish you end up with when you buy a six pack of yoghurts compared with buying one larger tub of yoghurt. It all adds up!!!!
Did you know that Australians get through 4.5 billion plastic bags a year!! Take your own reusable bags to the supermarket with you because plastic supermarket bags cannot be recycled in our domestic recycling service and make up a large proportion of the rubbish produced.
Reusable bags can be used again and again, saving natural resources and helping the environment. Most of the larger supermarkets now produce their own reusable bags. Go on, do the right thing!!
Buy better made, quality goods that last for a long time and don't wear out or break down so quickly. You will have them for years and will not need to throw them out!!
Another tip, if buying electrical items like washing machines, fridges or dishwashers, check the energy rating of the item. Manufacturers now add stars to their products to show how energy efficient the product is. The more stars (up to six) the better.
It is now possible to make your own DIY detergents from everyday items such as bicarbonate soda and vinegar. There are many books available that offer recipes for homemade cleaning products that are just as effective if not more so than chemical alternatives. They are also better for the environment, cheaper and reduce waste!!!
Borrow items as much as you can. Use the local libraries to borrow books, videos and music and ask your neighbour to borrow tools or a lawnmower.
One last smart shopping tip is to check where the product you are buying was produced. The further the product has travelled the greater the environmental impact. Where possible, try and choose products that are made and produced in Australia, and support local business.

Remember, before you throw anything away see if it can be reused. Sometimes, just because you no longer have a use for a product someone else might! Take it along to your second hand store or charity shop. If it cannot be reused, then check if it is recyclable and put it into your recycling bin.

So, reducing and smart shopping is pretty straightforward! If we all do our bit to cut down on waste and think a little bit more about what we buy, we can make a difference and help the environment. It can often save us money as well!!

Last Updated 26 Oct 2009 |

Print this page |