Establish a policy that office reports, memos, internal manuals etc be double sided copied to reduce paper.
Place reminder signs at photocopiers and printers re: double sided printing
Maintain a centralised filing system instead of making multiple copies for multiple files
Send e-mail memos to save paper
Store data on computer networks or disks instead of paper files
Review documents on – screen before printing to avoid waste
Update your mailing lists to avoid duplication, waste and added costs
Remove your company’ s name from junk mailing lists
Order supplies in bulk or in concentrated form
Don’ t use bin liners in bins collecting dry waste
Purchase durable equipment
Replace paper towels with washable towels or hand dryers
Use rechargeable batteries
Implement a stock purchase and rotation system so stock is used within its “shelf-life”
How can I reuse my business waste ?
Set up a draft paper in your printer to print draft documents on the back of slightly used paper
Convert scrap paper into memo pads
Save and reuse inter – office envelopes, file folders and boxes
Use reusable mailing pouches
Reuse shredded newspaper / paper for packaging
Repair old or unused office furniture and equipment or donate it to charity
Give old magazines to libraries, hospitals or nursing homes
Use re-useable memo boards for messages
Refill laser printer, copier and fax toner cartridges
Reuse ring binders, paper clips, rubber bands
Distribute and use ceramic mugs for polystyrene or plastic cups
Reuse incoming boxes for outgoing deliveries
Waste reduction tips for householders
Write a shopping list to make sure that you don’ t come home with more than you need
Shop local, buy loose fresh vegetables and fruit to avoid all the bulky packaging
Increase the life of your food by using your freezer
Use refillable and rechargeable products where possible
Buy a vacuum cleaner with re-washable bags
Leave packaging behind when buying electrical appliances and in the case of the delivery of bulky household items ask delivery person to take back packaging
Use e-mail instead of paper where possible
Reuse empty glass jars and plastic food containers for storage / freezing food.If you cannot do this collect all glass containers and bring them to your local bottle/bring bank. In Lismore the bottle bank is situated at Townparks at the entrance to St. Carthage’sHouse. Please segregate your glass according to colour.Respect this area . Do not litter
Buy concentrated products that use less packaging, e g. detergents and flavourings for your drinking water
If you use takeaway outlets for food, wash and re-use the plastic food boxes for freezing food in your freezer or as lunch boxes for family members
When buying household products buy those that can be refilled. Soft pouches rather than stiff containers for coffee and cleaning products. Reduce your consumption, disposal of packaging and the carbon released in transparent weighty goods
Make your own fuel from unwanted paper and newspaper by investing in a paper log maker for an open fire. It is quite easy and cost effective
If you are fed up of receiving junk mail in the post, minimise this type of waste by registering with Irish Direct Mail phone number: 01 661 04 70
When clearing out your house, attic or garden shed, reduce waste and encourage reuse by letting others use what you do not want anymore, by listing such items on the following websites: www.freetradeireland.ie, www.jumbletown.ie, www.freecycle.ie, www.gumtree.ie
For people living in Lismore to discourage the delivery of junk mail to your property use the Lismore Tidy Towns anti junk mail sticker on your letter box
