Zero Waste Tyne and Wear: Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside
Whitley Bay, Ava Lily
Tyne and Wear in north east England is a brilliant place to explore a lower-waste lifestyle. From the city of Newcastle to the nearby town of Gateshead, you’ll find riverside paths, coastal walks and nature reserves, plus many independent shops.
Zero waste does not mean producing absolutely no rubbish. It means avoiding waste where possible, reusing what we already have, repairing instead of replacing, and recycling or composting what remains. Small, realistic changes can add up—especially when residents, local businesses and visitors all take part.
If out walking, follow the Countryside Code to keep all creatures safe. Keep dogs away from steep banks, mushrooms, cliffs and toxic plants/trees. If at the coast, read how to keep dogs safe by the seaside.
Some people are not fans of the Angel of the North, the massive statue that overlooks both Newcastle and Gateshead, and can be clearly seen from busy motorways. Some say it looks like a Nazi propaganda statue, some name it locally as the Gateshead flasher!
What does zero waste mean?
The zero-waste approach is often summed up by the “five Rs”:
- Refuse things you don’t need (like promotional freebies).
- Reduce what you buy and choose durable products.
- Reuse containers, bags, clothes and household items.
- Repair belongings rather than replacing them.
- Recycle what cannot be refused, reduced or reused.
The order matters. Recycling is useful, but preventing waste in the first place usually saves more resources. For example, carrying a reusable cup avoids need to recycle a disposable one. Or taking a reusable water bottle.
Co-wheels car-sharing hubs
Co-Wheels is a nationwide social enterprise car-sharing club. Where you can rent new safe (mostly hybrid) cars by the hour, to reduce traffic and mean you have no need to buy a car. It has hubs across the northeast, including Newcastle, Gateshead and North Tyneside.
The North Tyneside coast
The coastline around Tynemouth, Cullercoats and Whitley Bay is popular for walking, swimming and enjoying the sea. Beaches and coastal paths can be especially busy in warm weather and during school holidays.
St Mary’s Island, near Whitley Bay, is known for its lighthouse and coastal views. The island and nearby shore are important for wildlife, and access conditions can be affected by tides and local guidance.
Check tide times and safety advice before visiting, stay on marked routes, and leave rocks, plants and wildlife undisturbed.
Ways to help the local coast
- Never litter. If you smoke, use a portable ashtray until you find a secure bin.
- Volunteer beach cleans are a practical way to help.
- Avoid disturbing coastal birds and other wildlife, keep dogs well-trained, following signs about protected areas and seasonal restrictions.
