How we deal with our waste has a direct impact on how we deal with the environment. For the most part, our decisions as consumers will help or hinder the environment. After years of throwing so much away, we are realising that “out of sight is NOT out of mind”. What we throw in the bin, onto the tip, or pour down the drain is part of our responsibility and affects the environment.

The following pages are there to inform and help those who want to choose a more sustainable lifestyle. In certain aspects of lives using a little common sense can make a difference especially when it comes to the waste we produce. It benefits the environment and ourselves, so we can enjoy a healthier planet as well as providing one for the next generation.

The Waste Management Hierarchy governs Ireland’s waste legislation, and is emphasised in all the local authorities Waste Management Plans. Ireland ranks near the bottom of the pyramid at disposal and we need to move upwards towards waste prevention and minimisation but the amount of landfill sites available are decreasing rapidly every year. The only alternative is to educate people on waste prevention and minimisation. We can all help reduce the amount of waste by minimising the amount we produce and the waste that cannot be reused may be recycled or composted. Waste that cannot be reused, recycled or composted needs to be disposed of safely.