How to Minimise Your Daily Waste

‘There’ll be times when you’re sick of some clothes, and no DIY-ing, re-styling or visiting a tailor will make you fall for them again. For these, dispose sustainably! Never chuck them out. Depending on how high-quality they are, you could swap them with friends, sell them via physical or online consignment stores, or donate them to charities’ collection containers. There are hundreds of large outdoor used clothing containers for donations, and even fashion retailers like H&M and Zara have in-store collection containers for used clothes.  Redress receives all of the used clothing donations that are donated within Zara stores in Hong Kong and Macau, and we work tirelessly to transform unwanted clothing to benefit the Hong Kong community.’ – Christina Dean, Founder of Redress and author of Dress [with] Sense

‘Cut back on plastic – easy everyday ways include refusing a plastic straw, carrying a reusable coffee mug and saying no to all plastic bags. You could also carry your own refillable water bottle everywhere, use a washable takeaway food container and ditch single-use cutlery. To do even more, contact your favourite restaurant and ask them to cut down on plastic by re-evaluating their takeaway containers, disposable cutlery and straw policy.’ – Tracey Read, Founder & CEO Plastic Free Seas

‘Try to repair instead of replacing. Many things can have a dent, a crack or a small problem, but can enjoy a new life with a little TLC. It may be easier to get a new one, but consider the value in making good use out of your resources and save some money at the same time. I’d also suggest getting a "No Circular Mail" from the post office – this magical sticker will avoid all the unnecessary advertising that lands in your mailbox. Every step counts.’ – Raphaël De Ry, Founder of Zero Waste Bulk Grocery Store Edgar

‘Take care when reading food date labels. A use-by date indicates when a product may no longer be safe to eat. You shouldn't eat, cook or freeze it after this date. However, a best-before date is an indication of quality not safety. Generally, items with a best-before date have a long shelf life and can be safely consumed after the date has passed. Things like their colour or texture might not be perfect, but you don't need to throw them away the minute their best-before date is past! If you do find anything in your cupboard that you bought on impulse and are unlikely to use, donate it to Feeding Hong Kong and we'll make sure they get to somebody who would otherwise go without.’ – Gabrielle Kirstein, Executive Director, Feeding Hong Kong