Sustainable Holidays: Quick tips for the season
The holidays are coming, and however you celebrate, chances are you amass a lot of, well, stuff. Much of this is recyclable paper and cardboard, such as shipping boxes, holiday cards and envelopes, shirt boxes and shoeboxes, and wrapping paper. Unfortunately, haulers also see items that do not belong in the recycling stream, including string lights, artificial trees and wreaths, and ribbons and bows. These are not recyclable and can even do damage to recycling sorting equipment. Take a few minutes and learn what and how to recycle, to end the year on a more environmentally friendly note.
As a general rule, paper and cardboard, metal cans, and plastic bottles and jugs are recyclable as long as they’re empty, clean and dry.
Here are five simple actions you can do for the planet this season.
- Think Before You Buy: A great way to make a difference in waste reduction is to avoid purchasing excess items in the first place.
- Choose Simple: Choose non-laminated, glitter-free wrapping paper and gift bags to ensure the person you gifted to can recycle them.
- Reuse Materials: Save non-recyclables like bubble wrap, ribbons, and bows for your next gifting event.
- Organize Food Waste: If you have an organics cart, compost leftover food. Never place leftover food in your recycle bin.
- Dispose of Decor Properly: Fake foliage should go in the waste cart. Consider donating them if still usable. Some plants, like poinsettias can be composted without a pot.
Do Recycle:
- Cardboard
- Paper boxes (gift, shoes and shipping)
- Wrapping paper (plain)
- Holiday cards and envelopes (without embellishments)
Don’t Recycle – Reuse or Dispose:
- Bubble wrap
- Ribbons and bows
- Gift bags (laminated, coated or dyed)
- Embellished wrapping paper (foil or glitter)
- Cellophane
- Foam packing peanuts
- Artificial Christmas trees
- Holiday string lights