Have you ever stopped and wondered what's in the products you're buying? Or, more importantly, the process behind the manufacturing of the materials? It's time to start.
With over 760,000 tonnes of waste produced in the Barwon South West region each year alone, eight local councils, including City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and Borough of Queenscliffe, have banded together to help reduce the level of waste we produce.
The Buy Recycled campaign is targeting the circular economy, which aims to minimise both waste as well as the environmental impact of single-use consumption by leveraging recyclable resources.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher is among the region's leaders encouraging others to
consciously purchase items made from recycled materials rather than single-use items.
"All it takes is a simple choice; a choice to stop purchasing single-use products and instead look at ways you can reduce your plastic contribution," Mayor Asher said.
"It can be as simple as swapping out some of our regular household items such as clothing, toiletries, bags and furniture for products that are made from recycled goods including plastic bottles, rubber, glass, cardboard or pre-loved fabrics.
"It's terrific to see that, increasingly, local stores and supermarkets are providing recyclable and
refillable options, there are more and more soft and hard plastic recycling options and I can personally vouch for the local op shops – they are fantastic!"
The campaign website includes a handy interactive map that highlights readily available recycled products, as well as the businesses stocking them.
Dozens of local businesses are featured as part of the campaign, hoping to inspire their communities to consciously purchase goods made from recyclable materials.
"We are fortunate to have so many wonderful businesses in our region that are committed to helping us build a brighter, healthier and successful future for Victoria," Mayor Asher said.
"It's up to us to start purchasing these products and really start working towards a healthier, happier future for our region."
Source: Barwon South West Waste & Resource Recovery Group
