2nd September 2026
Residents across South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse are being encouraged to discover how a few small changes at home can make a big difference for their community as a new month-long campaign launches this month.
Waste Less. Clean Spaces. Better Places. brings together practical ideas to help households reduce waste, save money and care for the environment.
Throughout September, the councils will be sharing simple tips, local ideas and easy swaps that families can try at home. From borrowing instead of buying, to making the most of leftovers and choosing products with less packaging, the campaign shows that reducing waste doesn't have to mean making big lifestyle changes. Instead, it's about taking one small step at a time.
Every item we don't throw away saves valuable resources, reduces unnecessary waste and helps keep our neighbourhoods cleaner.
Over the coming weeks the campaign will also highlight local refill shops, Libraries of Things, community litter picking groups and practical recycling advice to help residents make even more sustainable choices.
Cllr Sue Cooper, Cabinet Member for Environment at South Oxfordshire District Council, said: "Most of us want to reduce waste, but it's easy to think that making a difference means making huge changes. The truth is that small everyday actions really do add up.
"Whether it's repairing something instead of replacing it, borrowing an item you'll only use once or planning meals to reduce food waste, everyone can play a part.
"This campaign is about making those choices simple, practical and achievable for busy families."
Cllr Robert Clegg, Cabinet Member for Environmental Services, Climate Action and Nature Recovery at Vale of White Horse District Council, said: "Looking after the environment doesn't have to mean making big changes overnight. Often, it's the small things we do every day that have the biggest impact.
"Whether it's remembering a reusable water bottle, checking the fridge before going shopping or choosing to repair something instead of replacing it, every small action makes a difference.
"This campaign is about showing that reducing waste can be simple, affordable and something the whole family can get involved in."
The campaign launches with five easy ways everyone can waste less this week:
· Buy only what you need.
· Reuse items whenever you can.
· Repair, donate or share unwanted items.
· Choose products with less packaging.
· Save leftovers for another meal.
Together, small changes can create cleaner spaces and better places for everyone.
Follow the councils' social media channels throughout September for tips, ideas and inspiration. To find out more, visit the Waste Less. Clean Spaces. Better Places. page on the South Oxfordshire website or Vale of White Horse website, or pop along to Thame's Tuesday market on 13 October – Thame – 8am-2.30pm where members of their Waste Team will be on hand to answer your questions.
