Australia is best known for its beautiful landscapes, cutting-edge infrastructural facilities, and vibrant culture. Unfortunately, the nation is constantly facing the issue of landfill waste.
Each year, Aussies produce a significant amount of rubbish, putting pressure on landfills and producing greenhouse gas emissions. It becomes imperative to think green and focus on reducing landfill waste.
Starting from your home by making small efforts, such as using natural cleaning products, etc can create a better and greener place to life.
Here are 7 impactful tips to get you started:
1. Create a Waste-Sorting Wizard
Begin the process by reducing landfill waste by understanding what goes where. You should familarise yourself with your local council's recycling guidelines.
With the help of these guidelines, you can divide waste into categories like paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, food scraps and general waste. Believe it or not! Sorting your waste systematically ensures recyclables get a new life, reducing the landfill waste.
2. Reuse Items
Before you discard or toss anything, re-check the product and consider if it can be reused. Here are some clever ways to repurpose old items:
- Convert old jars and containers into storage for pantry items, craft supplies, or homemade cleaning products.
- Use old clothes for wiping surfaces
- Repurpose old toothbrush to clean your home
- Give furniture a makeover with a fresh coat of paint or new upholstery.
You can donate unwanted items in good condition to charity shops, op shops, or online marketplaces.
3. Compost Kitchen Scraps and Yard Waste:
There is no denying that food scraps make up a significant portion of landfill waste in Australia. The best solution is to composting. This process breaks down organic materials into nutrient-rich soil conditioner, ideal for your garden or potted plants.
4. Say No to Single-Use Plastics:
It can be hard to believe, but single-use plastics are a major contributor to landfill waste and water pollution. It is good to give up using plastic by following these hacks:
- Carry a reusable water bottle
- Use your own reusable shopping bags.
- Avoid pre-packaged fruits and vegetables
- Choose products with minimal packaging.
5. Wisely Hop for Shopping
Planning your shopping trips and being mindful plays a crucial role in reducing landfill waste.
You can prepare a list and stick to it. Avoid impulse purchases that might end up unused and eventually binned.
6. Leverage Sustainable Alternatives
Many everyday products can be replaced with sustainable alternatives that create less waste:
- Opt for bamboo toothbrushes
- Use microfiber cleaning cloths
- Reusable menstrual cups
- DIY natural cleaning products.
Incorporating natural tools and products in Australia can make a huge difference in minimising landfill waste.
Conclusion
There is no denying that making small yet impactful changes in a day-to-day life plays a pivotal role. Make sure you following these hacks and minimise landfill waste as much as possible. Consider contacting your local council to inquire about composting programs, recycling initiatives, and waste reduction strategies.