Using resources more efficiently could lead to savings of as much as 245 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) in Britain during the next decade, it has been claimed.
A report by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) indicated that up to ten per cent of the 2020 emissions reduction target could be met simply by ensuring that natural resources are not wasted, without having any negative impact on gross domestic product.
The study recommended using lighter and more sustainable materials in production and ensuring that goods are used to the end of their lives.
Commenting on the WRAP report, Waste Watch Spokeswoman Caroline Laitner remarked that "what we really want to be doing is cutting out the waste at the source", adding: "As a nation we do throw too much away."
Confectionary firm Cadbury recently revealed that it is reducing packaging by 45 per cent in weight by switching from tins to sustainably-sourced cardboard packaging in the lead up to Christmas.
