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Zero Waste Challenge Week - Guidance and Tips

Image of waste free shopping

What do you mean by Zero Waste?

Zero Waste means that nothing gets thrown away in the dustbin. As well as trying to cut down what we use, it means that we only use things that we can reuse, recycle or compost.  That way we’re left with nothing else to throw away in the bin.

How does Zero Waste Challenge Week work?

Zero Waste Week runs from Monday through to Sunday.   Throughout this week the aim is to try to only use things that you can reuse, recycle or compost. 

How can I achieve a Zero Waste Week?

Before the week begins, try to plan ahead and think about all the things you usually throw away, maybe even take a look in your bin and then think of alternatives you could use instead.  If you cannot think of an alternative, can you do without it for the week?

For example, when buying bread, you can avoid the plastic wrapping by buying fresh bread over the counter.  If wrapped in tissue, you could compost the tissue or alternatively bring your own bag to put it in.

If you buy sandwiches in plastic packs, consider making your own for the week and using reusable containers.

If you buy drinks in cardboard cartons, try buying your drink in a recyclable can instead.

If you eat things like crisps or yoghurt, try buying something different in a container that can be more easily recycled.

Is it possible to achieve a Zero Waste Week?

We believe that if you make enough changes, it is possible to achieve a Zero Waste Week.  However, the aim of the challenge is to see how close you can go.  Circumstances are different for everyone and even if you don’t quite manage to achieve Zero Waste, you’ll find you can have a dramatic effect on the amount you throw away.   

How can I find out more about reducing waste?

For further information on how to reduce waste, please go to Reducing Waste or a copy of our 'Cut it Out' leaflet on waste reduction please go to Current Leaflets or contact Council Connect (councilconnect@bathnes.gov.uk) 01225 39 40 41.

For further information about Zero Waste Challenge Week, please go to Zero Waste Challenge Week and Zero Waste Challenge Week Results.

You may also be interested in visiting the following blog sites which relate the experiences of people from around the country who have set up their own zero waste challenges:

www.therubbishdiet.co.uk

http://www.myzerowaste.com/

http://zerowaist.blogspot.com/

Please note that Bath & North East Somerset Council...

  • Does not accept responsibility for the content of external websites
  • Cannot guarantee the accuracy of external websites
  • Does not endorse the views or information held on external websites

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