Holiday Recycling Tips

According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, waste increases 25% during the holiday season. Here are some tips to help keep your waste at a minimum.

1. Wrapping Paper. If you are giving a gift this holiday season, be aware what you wrap it in. Certain types of wrapping paper can’t be recycled. The best way to figure out if it can be recycled is to do the scrunch test. If you scrunch it in your hand it stays it’s shape, that can’t be recycled. There are alternatives like gift bags that can be reused year after year, reusable cloth bags, newspaper, or purchased recycled gift wrap.

2. Holiday Lights. Have any old holiday lights? Don’t throw them away! These can be recycled at Recycling Jackson or mail them through Holiday LED. Need to purchase new lights? Consider purchasing LED lights. They might cost a little more up front but they consume 80% less energy and last 25 times longer.

3. Electronics. Getting a new TV for Christmas? Take the old TV and donate or recycle it. If you need to get rid of any electronics do not put them in the trash! When electronics end up in landfills, toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium leach into the soil and water. Recycling Jackson takes electronics, and Best Buy will recycle certain items as well. (some fees might be applied)

4. Food. It’s the time of year to enjoy each others company and indulge in comfort foods. If you are making food for a crowd one way to help reduce food waste is to create a menu. This way you know exactly what you need. Additionally compost any food scraps, or repurpose leftovers. There are many ways to avoid putting waste in the trash can.