Waste MinimisationEvery year in Southwark we produce approximately 139,000 tonnes of waste, which is equivalent to almost a tonne of waste per household. This figure is continuing to rise. We are making great developments in recycling, and have quadrupled our recycling rate over the last four years to just over 14%. However, according to the waste hierarchy, the best thing that you can do with waste is not produce it in the first place!
Waste minimisation is about focusing on prevention, so it can be defined by any actions that stop waste being created in the first place, eg. reuse and repair.
Waste minimisation saves
- Energy
- Valuable resources
- Money, as it reduces the need for waste collection, treatment and disposal
The waste hierarchy
Waste minimisation strategy
We have developed a Waste Minimisation Strategy, which sets out how we intend to reduce waste growth in Southwark and move towards more sustainable waste management practices.
The strategy covers a three year period and contains a one year waste minimisation plan, which will be updated on an annual basis.
 You can download the waste minimisation strategy here. (697kb)
To view the documents , you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader on your pc. You can download Acrobat Reader here for free.
Top tips for minimising waste in Southwark
Choose to reuse
A large proportion of what we throw away can be reused. By reusing or repairing items you can help reduce the amount of waste you produce. There are lots of opportunities for buying good quality, reuse items in Southwark including IT equipment and furniture. More reuse ideas.
 Smart shop
Is is estimated that up to 30% of household waste is packaging and that the average Londoner wastes a staggering £2,200 every year on unwanted food and goods. By "Smart" shopping we can greatly reduce the amount of waste we produce. Start shopping "smart".
Stop junk mail
The average household receives over 220 pieces of junk mail every year, most of which ends up in the bin. Take part in our "Stop Junk Mail" campaign by registering with the Mailing Preference Service and displaying one of our "no junk mail" letterbox stickers. More about stopping junk mail!
Get real with nappies
Disposable nappies make up nearly 3% of all household waste in Southwark. Once a disposable nappy is thrown away, it may take up to 500 years to break down in a landfill site. You can significantly reduce the amount of household waste you produce by switching to real, cloth, nappies. They're good for your pocket too. More about getting real with nappies!
Home composting
Did you know that up to a third of household waste is organic and can be composted at home? You can easily reduce the amount of waste you produce by composting at home, which is an efficient and environmentally friendly way to dispose of your kitchen and garden waste. Southwark Council offers subsidised compost bins or wormeries. More about home composting.
Contact us
Waste minimisation team
Tel: 020 7525 2000
environment@southwark.gov.uk
30-34 Penrose Street
London
SE17 3DW
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