Merry Less Mess

Stuff We Love

Dec. 24, 2022

According to a study by Stanford University, Americans throw away 25 percent more trash during the holidays than we do the rest of the year. (And we always rank in the top five countries for most waste production.) So how can you cut down on waste these next few weeks? 1) Skip the wrapping paper and shiny gift bags—most of them (like the fun, glittery kinds) can rarely be recycled anyway—and use packing paper or reusable bags and boxes instead. 2) Say no to bows and ribbons and other adornments that wind up in the trash. 3) Opt for white tissue paper that is sans harmful dye. 4) Send your holiday cards electronically or print on recycled paper. 5) Keep bubble wrap and plastic bags separate to dispose of at your nearest plastic film recycler. 6) Don’t drop the Christmas tree at the dump—contact your municipality to learn about their organic material recycling programs. Let’s all be merry and make less mess!