Did you know 80 percent of what is thrown away during the holidays can be recycled or repurposed? Your holiday can be a more environmentally friendly one by following a few simple tips: Save and reuse gift bags, ribbons, and bows – great for the environment and your wallet. If you’re shipping gifts, reuse old bubble wrap or foam peanuts and consider using shredded newspaper or magazines to secure items. Also, most standard wrapping paper can be recycled, however if it contains glitter or foil, it’s a no-go. Generally the fancier the wrapping paper, the less recyclable it is. Finally, toy packaging made of heavy cardboard is only recyclable with the cardboard is separated from the plastic. This includes the plastic window on the box of a doll or action figure.
Common holiday items that do not belong in the recycle include:
- Bubble wrap, cellophane, ribbons, bows
- Batteries, electronics
- Holiday lights
- Foam packaging
- Food waste, clothing, shoes
In Elk River, curbside Christmas tree recycling is not available, however residents wanting to dispose of a live tree after the holidays can do so at the Compost Site located at 19000 Proctor Road NW. The tree does not have to have to be cut up at all, however please ensure that all decorations, including lights, ornaments, and ribbons, are removed and tree is not in any sort of bag prior to drop off. Compost Site users must have an access pass which requires them to be a resident of Sherburne County. To learn more, click here.