This week Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio looked at ways we can decrease our packaging waste on our weekly shop.
Tips to cut back on packaging waste….
- Reuse Produce Bags
Buy reusable cotton produce bags for fruit and vegetables, and always choose loose varieties.
- Reuse Containers
Take large glass jars or other reusable containers and use these wherever an item needs to be weighed.
- Bring a Cloth Bag for Bread
Use a solid cloth bag to buy bread and dry bulk items. You can buy these online in various sizes, or use a small pillowcase. Bea Johnson of the Zero Waste Home blog and book recommends washable wax crayons for writing the product code on the bag.
- Always reuse your shopping bags
- Opt for Recyclable Packaging
If you must buy a pre-packaged item, always choose recyclable packaging made of glass, metal, or paper over lower-grade plastic packaging.
- Avoid Products With Excess Packaging
Be prepared to refuse items based on packaging.
- Shop at Stores That Support These Practices
All of this is made easier by shopping at stores that support zero waste practices, i.e. The Refill Mill, and similar shops in your area.
For more information:
www.epa.ie/our-services/monitoring–assessment/waste/national-waste-statistics/packaging/
www.askaboutireland.ie/enfo/irelands-environment/health-and-wellbeing/waste/plastic-waste/
