All householders have a responsibility to take care of the environment, for example by:

Buying home improvement materials that are safe
Disposing of harmful materials properly

Re-using or recycling things you no longer need.

Paints, varnishes and solvents

The solvents used in paint and varnishes create potentially harmful fumes and cause damage to the ozone layer. Choose low solvent content or water-based products to reduce the impact you make on your environment. Look for the EU eco-label on paints that are better for the environment and less harmful to you.

Paints, varnishes and solvents should never be poured down sinks or drains, since they will pollute the watercourse. Instead, take them to your nearest civic amenity site for recycling - click here for details.

Timber

When buying timber products look for the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) logo. This shows that the wood has come from a sustainably managed forest instead of one that is being destroyed.

Recycling

As well as glass, paper and plastics, many other materials, such as paint and oil can be used by someone else or recycled. Old furniture can often be re-used.

see also: