shopSMART Tips

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Top 10 Tips to ShopSMART

Think about what you actually need, what you spend money on, and what items you throw away which can still be used by someone if not yourself.  

The following ten tips can help you reduce waste and save money.

1. Avoid excess packaging when choosing products
   Many items such as fruits and vegetables are perfectly packaged in their own skin and do not need extra packaging. If you need to use plastic bags make sure you re-use them or take some from home.
   
   
2. Take reusable bags when you shop
   This is a safe and convenient way to carry purchases and also eliminates the need for the retailer’s disposable bags.
   
   
3. Buy what you need and eat what you buy
   Avoid impulse buying. Not only will you end up with something you can’t use and have to throw away but it will also be very expensive.
   
   
4. Buy a water filter... and a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottles of mineral water.  This will reduce waste and save you money.
   
   
5. Buy durable products
   These will also save you money in the long run. Low energy light bulbs can last up to eight times longer than standard ones; crockery and reusable plates are great for picnics and parties and also reduce waste and save money.
   
   
6. Compost your food and garden waste
   Food and garden waste accounts for a large amount of the Borough's waste but this can be composted and used to feed your garden. If you cannot compost at home you can take garden waste to the Villiers Road Recycling Centre.
   
   
7. Furniture re-use
   Kingston Voluntary Action run a Furniture Reuse Scheme for Kingston residents. Furniture is collected and then distributed to individuals and families in need.
   
   
8. Hire instead of buy
   Do you need to buy a new drill or sander? Borrowing one will probably work out cheaper, leaving you with more space and reducing packaging waste. Hire shops can be found in the yellow pages.
   
   
9. Donate unwanted clothing, books, toys and household items to your local charity shop or furniture re-use centre.
   
   
10. Buy items you can reuse
    Re-using margarine tubs to freeze foods or pack lunches reduces the need for foil or plastic wrap. Avoid buying individual pre-packed disposable items that cannot be reused.