The products you choose to buy can have a big infleuence on the amount of waste produced. Looking out for products with reduced packaging can make a big difference. Why not use our Positive Package tips and examples next time you are out shopping!

Choose products with less packaging

Look out for products with reduced packaging, such as those in our examples on the right, and avoid products which you feel are over-packaged.

Buy concentrates

Concentrated products contain less water so can reduce packaging by over 50%. Fabric conditioner, squash, liquid detergent and handwash are all examples of concentrated or refillable products. Follow manufacturers’ instructions on cleaning products to make sure that you use the right amounts of these products.

Complain politely and effectively when you believe a product has too much packaging

If you believe a product has too much packaging, contact the retailer, brand or supplier either by revisiting the place that you bought the product, or by writing to them. Take a look at the product packaging it may have a contact number or address for you to use. You can use our letter template to help compose your letter.

If you feel you are not making progress with your complaint or are unsatisfied with the response you receive, you can report the case to your local authority Trading Standards Office. To find your local office visit the Trading Standards website, www.tradingstandards.gov.uk

For further information and advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06.

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