It's summer. Time for sunshine, lots of outdoor time, and enjoying nature. During the holiday season, we often bring out all sorts of summery items or buy new ones. Discover how you can reuse, borrow, or buy more consciously to make summer just as enjoyable, but much more sustainable!
Reuse and borrow
Before you head to the store for new summer gear, consider if you really need it. Perhaps you have some stuff from last year that you can reuse. Or perhaps there are friends, neighbors, or family you can borrow from. Need a paddling pool for that one hot week, for example? Ask around in your neighborhood first. Picnic blankets are also great for sharing. Camping gear like tents and sleeping bags is often only used a few times a year. By sharing, you save money and space. Or check out online sharing platforms where you can borrow or share items. This is not only good for the environment, but also for your wallet.
Sustainable purchasing
If you do want to buy something new, choose sustainable options. This way, you'll directly contribute to a better environment.
- Swimwear: Choose swimwear made from recycled materials. These are sustainable and of good quality.
- Beach chairs and umbrellas: invest in sturdy items that will last for several summers.
- Sunscreen: Choose sunscreen in biodegradable packaging or larger containers to save plastic.
Give things a second life
Do you have summer items that are still in good condition but you no longer use? Take them to a thrift store or donate them. This way, you'll not only make your summer more sustainable but also help others enjoy a more sustainable summer.
Broken or worn summer items
Summer items can break or wear out during use. It's good to know where to put them afterward:
Broken beach chairs or umbrellasThese items can usually be repaired. If repair isn't possible, take them to the recycling center for recycling. Worn-out swimwear and towelsWorn-out swimwear and towels, provided they are clean and dry, can be disposed of in the designated textile collection container in your neighborhood. This ensures that the materials can be reused.Sunscreen or oilNever flush old sunscreen or sun oil down the sink, as this can cause problems in the sewer system. These products should be disposed of with their packaging in the residual waste. Empty plastic bottles of sunscreen and sun oil can be disposed of with plastic packaging, metal packaging (cans), and beverage cartons (PMD)*. Preferably with the cap on to prevent spills.
*Note: How you dispose of PMD depends on where you live. Residents of high-rise and low-rise buildings without a PMD container may dispose of PMD and residual waste together in a local residual waste container. This waste is collected separately and later sorted by machines.
By disposing of your summer items correctly, you contribute to a better environment and ensure that materials are reused as much as possible.
Use the separation guide
Do you have another summer product and are you unsure which container it belongs in? With the handy Waardlanden app you always have the separation guide and other information about waste and raw materials at hand.
Together for a sustainable summer
Every small gesture helps, from sharing camping gear to choosing recycled swimwear. By donating your summer gear or disposing of it properly, you ensure that materials can be reused and, together, we reduce waste.
Let's focus on less waste and more enjoyment this summer. Together we can make a difference!
For more tips, visit waardlanden.nl/tips