It is time to shine a spotlight on one of our favourite change agents in New Zealand, Laura Cope from UYO (Use Your Own) and Takeaway Throwaways! This badass, environmental pro-activist, waste crusader has been making waves around the country with her volunteer-based Use Your Own cup initiative. UYO is a not for profit enterprise that encourages people to steer clear of single-use cups with positive messaging and a nationwide presence. UYO has a very accessible online cafe guide which has various options for finding the right cafe for you.

The team at Res.Awesome is excited to announce our upcoming event, The Waste Warrior Workshop which will be held on February 16th. This workshop is specifically designed to encourage behaviour change - which is the key component in reducing Aotearoa’s waste flow. Knowing what can be recycled and how is the first step in ensuring we are recycling responsibly. In this workshop we cover a wide variety of topics. We will learn about where our products come from and the materials used to make them. We will cover where our waste goes and explore the whole system; from the extraction of resources, to disposal.

The global population has recently turned its collective attention to the imminent threat of global warming and the dire effects it will have on our flora, fauna and iwi. It is no wonder most businesses are concerned about maintaining a clean, green image. To turn a blind eye to the damage being done to our world, would seem callous and uncaring - which would not be good for business!

The team at Res.Awesome would like to draw our followers’ attention to a retailer in New Zealand making great strides towards a circular waste system. Mitre 10 have launched a new initiative designed to keep plant pots out of our landfills. Mitre 10’s Pot Recycle is a practical closed-loop solution designed to stop plant and seedling pots ending up in landfills. This scheme has rolled out nationwide for your convenience! New Zealand has seen many kiwi’s fall back in love with gardening, partly due to lockdowns and more people working from home. We are stoked to see more kiwi’s spending time with their hands in the dirt; getting back to nature.