The 5 simple habits we can all be doing to reduce waste, according to an expert.

Thanks to our brand partner, WasteSorted

Have you ever looked at your overflowing bin and felt that familiar pang of guilt? You're definitely not the only one.

In today's fast-paced, throwaway world, it can feel like we're constantly swimming in a sea of packaging, plastic and... more packaging. It's overwhelming, to say the least.

But, before you spiral into a full-blown climate guilt meltdown, take a deep breath. Because doing your bit in waste reduction doesn't mean you have to move to the bush and live off-grid for the rest of your life. 

I'm no expert on this topic, but I am an eager student. So to help guide me on my waste-reduction journey, I enlisted the help of Teresa Belcher, who works on the WasteSorted program for The Waste Authority WA.

Avoid single-use items

"The easiest thing to do is avoid it in the first place," Teresa explained. "There are so many moments in our day-to-day life when single-use items are offered, and simply saying 'no' is a crucial first step."

So, carrying reusable items like a coffee cup and water bottle when you're out and about is a great place to start. Soon enough, you'll join many others and it'll become second nature, just like having reusable shopping bags on hand when you head to the supermarket. Your coffee will probably even taste better too!

Make it a habit

Speaking of grocery shopping, Teresa recommended picking loose fruits and veggies next time you hit the weekly shop — skip the ones in plastic trays and wrapped in extra packaging.

Opting for reusable containers is another game-changer, whether it's bringing your own containers to bulk food stores or taking them to your favourite takeaway shop to collect Friday night's dinner. She also suggested taking reusable containers to the butcher or deli and ensuring you store your leftovers in them to avoid covering things in plastic wrap.

The same goes for parties. Instead of reaching for disposable tableware, try investing in a party kit — or better yet, put one together yourself using thrifted finds from your local op shop. You'll cut down on waste and save yourself the hassle of shopping for decorations every time you're hosting. And you could even lend this kit out to your friends or local community.

Loan don't own

When it comes to items you won't need every day like power tools or camping gear, Teresa suggested hiring from a hire shop or borrowing these items from your community.

That power drill you need to use exactly twice? That tent you'll use once every three years? Borrow it from your neighbour or friends instead of buying your own. And you can return the favour with your own belongings.

Buy secondhand

Before punching in your credit card details for a brand new outfit, consider whether you can find something similar on a secondhand site or even your local op shop instead.

The same goes for furniture and household items. "Buy Nothing" Facebook groups see communities trading or giving away items with more life in them to their neighbours to ensure things aren't going to waste. 

Learn how to store your food

Most of us have discovered a science experiment disguised as forgotten veggies at the back of the fridge. So learning how to store our food properly is important when it comes to reducing food waste.

"Meal planning can help to minimise impulse purchases and shopping when you're not hungry prevents over-buying," Teresa explained. "When it comes to leftovers, take them for lunch or freeze portions for those lazy nights where you just can't be bothered cooking."

Creating an "eat me first" section in your fridge for the food items closer to expiry can be a fun way to gamify your cooking while cutting waste. And catering appropriately for the number of people you're feeding will also help, Teresa noted.

It might feel like your small contributions won't make a big difference in the grand scheme of things, but Teresa said it all adds up and that collective individual action can actually create market demand that drives systemic change.

In other words, your choices (and your actions) matter. You don't need to be perfect. You just need to start somewhere.

Feature Image: Getty.

Many Western Australians are choosing to avoid excess waste by swapping disposable and single-use items for better, reusable alternatives. Ditch the single-use bags in the fresh fruit and veg aisles for reusable produce bags. Borrow or lend tools, toys, and more. Visit repair cafés and Mens' Sheds to give broken items a new life. It's easy, impactful, and starts with one swap at a time. For more on how to sort and reduce your waste, visit wastesorted.wa.gov.au