Make life easy

If your local authority collects recyclable materials (e.g. paper, glass) as part of its waste collection service - take advantage! If not, Use the postcode locator to find your nearest recycling centre.

Remember those jars

Bottle banks also take glass jars (like your marmalade jar, pickled onions jar, spice jars ...) and clear glass is especially desireable.

Savvy Shopping

• Make a shopping list so you buy only what you need

• Choose a bag for life instead of plastic carrier bags

• Buy refills – many cleaning products are available as refills

• Try reusable alternatives to throwaway items such as razors

• Avoid convenience foods with layers of packaging

• Buy loose fruit and vegetables rather than pre-packed

• Buy goods with a high recycled content

Routine recycling

Make a visit to a bottle, can or other type of recycling bank part of your routine – most supermarkets have recycling facilities so don’t forget to drop before you shop! Use our postcode locator to find your nearest facilities

Squash em and wash em!

When you’re recycling cans, squash them so they take up less room – and wash out food cans first

Wrapping paper

Some wrapping paper can be recycled - but only if it is plain white with simple printing. Be sure to remove all tape, ribbons, and bows, and fold it (don't scrunch it) when you place in your recycling container.

Engine Oil

Get rid of old engine oil safely and cleanly by calling 08708 506506 or www.oilbankline.org.uk

Hazardous waste solutions

Go to the NHWF's (National Household Hazardous Waste Fourm) Virtual House and see if you’ve got any hazardous waste lying around at home – you’ll also find out how to dispose of it safely.

Clear it out!

Recycle your clothes, books and unwanted gifts at charity shops, clothes banks or via charity bags at your doorstep.

Don’t dump old furniture

Look up details of furniture recyclers in your local phone book. Or, try the Furniture Re-use Network.

Brita Water Filters

If you use Brita Water Filters, don't just bin them when you’re finished, recycle them by simply collecting up 6 and sending them to: Brita Recycling, FREEPOST NAT 17876, Bicester, OX26 4BR. (Ian G's Top Tip)

Re-paint

Donate your left-over paint to www.communityrepaint.org.uk

Take away

If you get chinese/indian take away food that comes in plastic containers; wash them out and they can be used as tupperware for packed lunches or food storage. (Dawn's Top Tip)

Source: recyclenow.com