RE-USE IS THE NEW RECYCLE! 

It seems the credit crunch might be an opportunity for providing an unexpected bonus. We're possibly all used to recycling our rubbish - but how about looking at ways to save money and re-use items?

Only a generation ago we accepted these skills as given. Empty sweet tins were used to store screws and nails in the shed, biscuit tins for buttons.

Too often we run to the shops for the latest colour-coordinated tubs for storage. Why not keep some of those tubs our butters and spreads are packed in?

A success story of recent years has been the re-establishment of farmers markets. But it's not just about buying from them. By returning empty jars and cartons, we can support these small businesses and do our bit for the environment too.

And of course, it can make life easier. The list of items accepted for recycling is fairly precise and it even varies from collector to collector - lids on, lids off and plastic this but not plastic that.

Recycling shouldn't mean using other resources to dispose of glass and tin etc. The next time you're sifting through your recyclable waste, take a moment to see if you can re-use it!

Helen Baggott
www.helenbaggott.co.uk