Shop Eco in Essex!

Love Essex Newsletter

If you’re looking to try and reduce your plastic waste , why not find your local zero-waste or refill shop in Essex? By purchasing items from these shops you can refill containers you already have which will save on plastic packaging. Even just buying a couple of items this way can make a huge difference.

---

Apply for funding to reduce waste

The second round of the Love Essex Fund is now open to applications for projects to reduce household waste in Essex.

The grants are up to £500 and can be applied for until 2 March. The fund has already helped projects including SILO Zero Waste Refillery, South Woodham Ferrers cloth nappy library and Castle Hedingham community garden.

If you have a great idea then apply today!

 

---

Easy ways to donate your items

It’s never been easier to find ways to donate your items in Essex. Many local places accept secondhand furniture, white goods, toys and even clothing. Some places even support low-income families in the community and provide jobs and training opportunities.

So, get rid of your stuff today, the easy way.

---

Have you taken the Plastic Pledge yet?

Last month we launched the Essex Plastic Pledge to inspire individuals and households to reduce their use of single-use plastics. Over 2700 people have already pledged!

We have also created a School’s Plastic Pledge. Schools will be provided with a resource pack full of hint and tips on how to  reduce plastic waste at school. So, if you know anyone who works in an Essex school and would be interested in getting involved, please share the pledge with them.

---

February seasonal recipes

Seasonal foods in February include brussels sprouts, cauliflower, swede, bananas and oranges. So why not have a go at one of these great tasting recipes:

Banana Curry

Swede Mash

Spiced Roast Cauliflower

Orange ‘Dream Bars’

---

Make the switch to cloth nappies

Did you know that disposable nappies count as single-use plastics? Making the switch to cloth means that you’ll be doing your bit to reduce waste and help our planet.

Even if you use just one cloth nappy a day, it will save 365 disposables a year going into landfill! We offer a £30 refund on both new and pre-loved cloth nappies, so why not give it a try?

---

Mythbuster: Coffee cups aren’t easily recyclable

Single-use coffee cups can technically be recycled, but it’s very difficult. They are mostly made of paper with a thin plastic coating inside to prevent leakage. It’s very hard to separate these materials, and therefore cannot be accepted in household recycling collections.

Although some High Street Coffee chains offer a coffee cup recycling service, the best solution is to say no to single-use cups and switch to your own reusable one instead.

---

---

You are able to keep up to date with our articles, news and publications by following us on our social media channels below: