Option 1: Repairing, restoring or adapting existing things

We think the best environmental choice is to repair, restore or adapt a product you already have. You may need professional help but it could still be cheaper than buying something new. And it's far better for the world's forests.

Did you know? Timber makes up 7-10% of stuff we take to waste sites - even though we could use most of it again.

Top tips for your old timber

Here are some ideas for passing your timber on instead of sending it to landfill.

• Would someone else like it? Can friends or neighbours use the spare timber from your house or garden? Would a local school or community group appreciate timber off-cuts from your DIY or home improvements project?
• Can your old furniture go to a new home? Some charity shops take good quality second hand furniture. And there are over 300 furniture recycling projects around the UK that pass reusable items on to low-income families. The Furniture Recycling Network can tell you about a scheme near you.
• Is your timber good enough to sell? Some good quality things, such as doors, fireplaces and kitchen units, might be worth selling to a recycling yard. You can do this through an advert in a local shop, newspaper or via SALVO!, experts in reclaimed building materials.
• Does your local authority recycle timber? You can check out your local authority website to see if it recycles wood from its household waste sites or has other timber recycling schemes.