Did you know 80% 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 cannot be recycled, as much of it containers glitter, foil, reflective areas, and other shiny/plastic coatings. Some simple wrapping paper without these items can be recycled, but if you’re in doubt it is best to throw it in the trash. Finally, toy packaging made of heavy cardboard is only recyclable when 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