What you can do

Living Sustainably

Recycling

Other ways to reduce waste

Reject plastic bags

Australians use and throw away about 6 billion plastic bags every year — not one of those bags will break down in your lifetime nor can plastic bags be recycled in your kerbside bin! Plastic bags and other non-recyclables like cigarette butts in your bin put could mean the whole lot goes to waste – so keep them out of your recycling bin.

Remember – take your own bags with you – most retailers also offer an environmentally friendly alternative at the point-of-sale. Bags made of natural fabrics such as cotton or wool are ideal.

Start a compost bin or worm farm

Anything that was once a plant or animal can be composted, including fruit and vegetable peelings, newspapers, grass clippings, weeds, tea leaves, coffee grounds, egg shells, old potting mix, dead flowers, human and animal hair. Avoid placing meat or dairy products in your compost until you are confident and experienced.

For an easy guide on how to compost or set-up a worm farm have a look at the resource centre. Many local councils also have guidelines on their websites or offer weekend courses on setting up a worm farm.

Look for ways to reuse or recycle goods

Many items can be given a new lease of life. "One person's trash is often another persons treasure", so why not have a garage sale or donate unwanted but useful items to a charity.

Have a look at the Cycle of life poster in the resource centre for inspiration.