A WASTE recycling company based in Berkshire has set out a number of ways residents can minimise their environmental impact over the summer.
The waste partnership for Reading, Wokingham, and Bracknell Forest, re3, has provided tips to help enjoy the summer without adding to waste problems associated with spending more time outdoors.
It includes a reminder to use provided bins, or if impossible, taking rubbish home when out and about, to reduce loose litter.
It also reminds residents to keep a spare bag in the car to avoid throwing litter from vehicles.
The company recommends using reusable items when picnicking, such as cloth napkins, reusable cutlery, and plates to reduce waste.
It also notes that leaving even compostable items such as banana skins, apple cores, and other food, attracts animals and can take months to decompose.
It explains that cigarette butts are some of the items which cause significant environmental harm when littered, as they clog street drainage.
It also warned that vapes contain lithium batteries which can set fire to collection vehicles and facilities.
They advise that vapes should be treated as small electricals and disposed and recycled at the electrical drop-off points or dedicated vape bins at re3 centres.
Cllr Karen Rowland, chairman of the Joint Waste Disposal Board and Reading Borough Council’s Lead Councillor for Environmental Services and Community Safety, released a joint statement with Cllr Jordan Montgomery, Wokingham Borough Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency and Cllr Helen Purnell, Bracknell Forest Council’s Executive Member for the Environment and Community Cohesion.
It reads: “Let’s all contribute to making this summer enjoyable and litter-free. Our collective efforts can ensure that we preserve the beauty of our natural and urban surroundings for everyone to enjoy.
“We also want to send a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated street cleaning teams and all the amazing volunteers who are tirelessly picking up litter.
“Your hard work and commitment are truly inspiring, helping to create a cleaner, more beautiful environment for us all. Remember, summer is to be loved, not littered.”
More information about re3 and further information about minimising environmental impact is available via: re3.fccenvironment.co.uk
