WAW urges spring cleaners to reuse & recycle

As Waste Awareness Wales celebrates its sixth anniversary this month (March), it is encouraging spring cleaners to go the extra mile this year and consider six ways to reuse and recycle items from their home.

Spring cleaning is expected to hit an all time high this year as the recession bites and homeowners seek to add value to their existing properties rather than upgrade to a new one. From using websites such as Freecycle, donating clothes to charity shops or selling on items, there are plenty of ways to clear out your home and ensure your unwanted household waste doesn’t end up in landfill.

Rachel Jowitt, spokesperson for Waste Awareness Wales, said:

"Celebrating our sixth year has got us all thinking about how to further reduce the amount of waste that is thrown out.

As we tighten our purse strings, more of us are looking at ways to create more space in our current homes. Following our six suggestions for a successful spring clean will mean that we can still do our bit for the environment too.

"There are many options available to get rid of unwanted goods from your home. Old furniture, clothes, books and games can be given to a charity shop for example, or link up with a local reuse organisation."

"Offering unwanted items to friends and family will always be welcome, especially at a time when buying new is often not an option.   Alternatively venture on freecycle.org where treasure hunters are always ready to snap up a find. You can also turn your ‘trash’ into cash by selling on your goods at a car boot sale or on eBay."

Helen Jenkins, Pride in Our Communities co-ordinator, added:

"If you are having a spring clean at home, make sure anything you throw away doesn't end up being flytipped. You have a responsibility to make sure that your waste ends up in the right place.

"Making sure that whoever removes waste from your home is a registered waste carrier can help cut down on illegal dumping. You can find the registered carriers in your area by visiting www.environment-agency.gov.uk/publicregister

To coincide with its sixth anniversary, Waste Awareness Wales has come up with six ways and make the most of your spring cleaning in an eco-friendly way:

1. Donate unwanted items such as clothing, gifts, toys and games to a local charity shop
2. Offer unwanted items on: www.freecycle.org
3. Turn your ‘trash’ into cash by selling it at a local car boot sale or online at www.ebay.co.uk
4. Donate unwanted bulky household items such as bedroom and dining furniture to a local reuse organisation, or offer to a family or friends.
5. Recycle – think before you throw unwanted items into black bags. Contact your local authority to find out which materials can be recycled locally.
6. Keep it – give your tired-looking furniture a new lick of paint, or sew some new buttons on to a plain cardigan, and give your things a new lease of life.