As the holiday season approaches, the Waste Reduction Committee encourages residents to think sustainably when wrapping gifts. Did you know that Americans generate 25% more waste between Thanksgiving and New Year's, adding an extra 1 million tons of waste per week? Much of this waste comes from non-recyclable gift wrap, ribbons, and bows.
Traditional wrapping paper, especially the shiny, glittery, or laminated kind, is often not recyclable. In fact, holiday-related waste, including wrapping paper, accounts for nearly 4 million tons of trash each year. By choosing sustainable wrapping options, we can help reduce this environmental impact.
Here are some eco-friendly alternatives:
- Reusable fabric wrap: Consider using scarves, cloth napkins, or fabric bags, all of which can be reused year after year.
- Recyclable paper: Stick to plain or printed kraft paper, which can be recycled.
- Creative reuse: Old maps, newspapers, or brown paper shopping bags make unique and sustainable wrapping.
- Decorate with nature: Swap plastic ribbons for twine, dried orange slices, or sprigs of evergreen.
Remember, every little action counts. By making mindful choices, we can all help reduce holiday waste and give back to the planet. Please avoid the following as these items are not recyclable in South Portland's curbside recycling program
- Ribbons & Bows (unless made from paper)
- Styrofoam & Styrofoam packing peanuts
- Tissue Paper
- Cellophane
- Gift Label Stickers