Everything we use has an impact on the environment — from the resources needed to make products to what happens to them when we no longer need them. How we reduce, reuse and dispose of waste can make a real difference to our climate, natural resources and the places we live.

Producing and managing waste uses energy and resources, while some forms of waste can contribute to pollution, harm wildlife and release greenhouse gases. Reducing the amount we throw away, reusing what we can and recycling materials helps us make better use of the resources we already have.

There are many ways we can all reduce waste in our everyday lives, from repairing and reusing items and avoiding unnecessary packaging to composting, recycling and making more sustainable choices when we buy things.

Below, you’ll find useful organisations, advice and sources of support to help you understand the links between waste, nature and climate change, and discover practical ways to reduce waste and use resources more sustainably.