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Vale of Glamorgan Council

Waste minimisationPile of papers

 

Waste reduction means less:

  • waste to dispose of
  • raw materials purchased
  • staff time in handling the waste.

Types of likely waste:

Cardboard

Usually from boxes of raw materials or products to sell. Ask your supplier if they can supply your goods in reusable containers or if they are willing to take boxes back.

 

Paper

Think before you print. The majority of waste paper in offices comes from unnecessary printing of emails, and extra copies of letters. Always use print double-sided, and make up pads of paper to reuse the back for rough notes.  

 

Envelopes

Do you really need an envelope? Could it be sent electronically? Use internal reusable envelopes for internal business. Contact the Mail Preference Service to reduce your junk mail.      

 

Plastic

Usually from wrapping material or from catalogues sent in the post. Speak to suppliers and see if they can reduce the amount of plastic they use in packaging; don't forget you are paying for the plastic with the product and to get rid of it.

 

Polystyrene

This will fill your bin up really quickly and cannot be recycled in the Vale. There are environmentally friendly alternatives available for this material including carboard packing and cornstarch materials. The only way to reduce this is to not accept products using this type of material as packaging - speak to your suppliers.

 

Wooden pallets

Pallets can be reused several times so ask your suppliers to take them back, or use them yourselves for shipping your goods out.

 

Contact

Email: visible@valeofglamorgan.gov.uk or tel: 01446 700111

Vale of Glamorgan Council, Civic Offices, Holton Road, Barry CF63 4RU, Tel: (01446) 700111