Environment

Recyclers across Shropshire are doing a great job - despite this, 90,000 tonnes of rubbish is still destined to end up in the county's landfill every year. Can we do something about it? We hope to find out in No Waste Week 23-29 June, and we need you to get involved.

Whether you're as green as they come, or just enjoy a challenge, why not join in. Throughout the week the aim is to only use products that can be recycled, composted or reused. That way there should be nothing left for the bin. It's a tough job... but even if you don't manage it, your black bin should be a lot lighter that it was the week before!

Faith and her family get composting

BBC Radio Shropshire reporter Faith Page is taking part along with the rest of her family and she will be keeping us updated with their progress.

Click on the link below to download our guide to taking part. Alternatively phone on 01743 248484 or e-mail us and we'll send you a copy of the guide in the post.

Volunteers are being asked to record how they get on each day and compare the results with the amount of waste they threw away in previous weeks. Whatever your experiences, we want to hear them. As well as making a direct impact on the environment, the project should reveal some valuable information for making a difference long-term.

Cutting out the waste

Suggestions for the week include buying fresh bread over the counter to avoid any plastic wrapping. If you buy sandwiches in plastic packs, consider making your own with reusable containers. Look for alternatives to traditional crisps, and yoghurt that makes use of recyclable packaging. If you buy drinks in cardboard cartons, try buying your drink in a recyclable can instead.

We believe that if you make enough changes, it is possible to achieve a No Waste Week, but the aim of the challenge is to see just how close you can go. Circumstances are different for everyone, but even if you don't quite manage to achieve no waste, you may discover that you can dramatically affect the amount you do throw away.