Could you go waste-free for February?

Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is challenging the community to go waste-free for February.

The charity says, “What does waste-free living actually mean? It means avoiding unnecessary waste and reducing the need for a rubbish bin (but don’t panic, we don’t expect you to lose the bin just yet!) There are huge positive environmental impacts to producing less waste:

“Fewer resources are used as raw materials – water, oil, energy, land, etc.

“Less waste will be sent to landfill and incineration

“It sends a message to businesses; we don’t want your waste

“Councils will spend less on landfill tax (currently £91 per tonne).

“Wiltshire Wildlife Trust is challenging the community to reduce its waste; it is as simple as that! You can set your own limit; zero waste or a jam jar’s worth is not realistic for everyone but this challenge is a great opportunity to look at the rubbish you are producing and see what you can do to reduce it. Why not set yourself a goal to produce no more than one carrier bag’s worth of rubbish for the month, or one black sack, or a two-litre bottle’s worth?

“If watching your waste for a whole month isn’t possible, try it for a day, or a week or two.

“You don’t have to hide away and avoid the supermarket – you can use materials which can be re-used, recycled and composted, but anything that would usually end up in the bin must go in your February waste container (bag/sack/bottle/jam jar or match box)

“You will learn to get savvy with your shopping, recycling and everyday habits which can lead to some lasting changes.

“If you produce less waste during your Waste Free Feb challenge then you can honestly say you have had a positive impact on our planet.

“Need help? Once you have signed up you will receive our Guide to Waste Free Living with lots of guidance and tips. You will also receive emails prior, during and post-challenge with additional guidance, tips and waste-free competitions.

“We have set up a Facebook group to support everyone taking part in Waste Free Feb. This is a community where you can share tips and good finds, and it is also a place to ask for help.

“Have fun! Having fun with this challenge makes it a lot easier. Don’t stress ,and remember we are here to help. Keep us updated on your progress on Twitter @SlimbinsWilts or Face book @WasteFreeFeb / Sustainability@WiltsWildlife Trust using #WasteFreeFeb to share your journey.

“#WasteFreeFeb 2019 was a huge success with over 400 people taking part and 8 tonnes of rubbish kept out the bin! Join us to make 2020 even more waste free.

“Take on the Waste Free challenge and join us for Waste Free Feb.”

To sign up to the challenge, visit the website: www.wiltshirewildlife.org/ forms/waste-free-feb