Did you know that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day there is about a 25 percent increase in volume or about 1,000 pounds of extra waste per household? Pretty crazy! The good news is that 80% of that waste can actually be reused, re-purposed, or recycled.
As an organization that is built upon sustainability and recycling our materials, we’ve come up with simple recycling tips to help you this holiday season.
4 Ways to Practice Sustainability this Holiday Season
1. This may seem like a give-in but saving and reusing wrapping supplies makes a big difference! Save and reuse gift bags, ribbons and bows for next year—it’s smart for the environment and for your wallet. Think twice when it comes to wrapping paper. Standard wrapping paper should be recycled, but anything with glitter or foil belongs in the trash (or save it for next year). Generally, the fancier the wrapping paper, the less recyclable it is. Some friendly alternatives to traditional gift wrap include old newsprint and brown paper grocery bags, which provide a canvas that you can use to create your own designs.
2. Recycle your electronic devices properly, or try to resell them. Getting a new device this holiday season? Make sure your old phone or tablet isn’t tossed in recycling. Check with your local service provider for special instructions or electronics recycling options.
3. Shop with sustainability in mind! Always bring your reusable bags with you when you do your holiday shopping.
4. When gifting, choose unique earth-friendly presents. Buy apps, subscriptions, refillable gift cards, ebooks as gifts and save waste. Alternatively, you can give the gift of creativity by getting crafty with homemade gifts. Some people opt for something more personal, while other options include edible treats!
There are many ways to do your part in reducing waste this year, whether it is reusing a newspaper for gift wrap, ensuring your tree is mulched and composted properly, or providing a zero waste gift! If you put some thought into it, you can make the holidays happy for you, your loved ones, and the Earth.