by Michael Taylor

Reducing holiday waste 

The holiday season brings joy, but it also generates a lot of waste. In the United States, trash volume increases by an estimated 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day! From packaging materials to decorations, trees, electronics and more, these items can pile up quickly. The good news? Most holiday waste can be reused or recycled with a few simple steps, helping you reduce your environmental footprint this season. 

Gift wrap, packaging, and shipping 

Cardboard, Styrofoam, bubble wrap, plastic wrap and ribbons and bows all require different recycling processes. Cardboard and plain wrapping paper should be placed in your blue cart, while Styrofoam, bubble wrap and plastic films can be taken to the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center, where they are recycled and eventually converted into new, reusable products. Ribbons and bows are not recyclable but can be reused for future gifts. Consider consolidating orders to reduce packaging waste and vehicle emissions when shopping for presents online. You can use reusable gift bags or newspaper for wrapping to help minimize waste.  

Holiday cards  

Holiday cards are another source of waste. Sending e-cards instead of traditional paper cards is a paperless, easy and cost-saving alternative. Cards you receive can be repurposed into gift tags, boxes or place settings.  

Holiday lights 

If you have broken string lights, avoid throwing them away and recycle them at the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center. String lights can get tangled in the gears at recycling facilities and create a safety hazard for workers.  

Electronics 

The holiday season also brings new electronics, but disposing of old ones can be hazardous. Many electronics contain lithium batteries and toxic chemicals that can harm the environment if thrown in the trash. Austin residents can set out old electronics for on-demand bulk collection or take them to the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center. Items accepted include cell phones, microwaves, televisions, washers and dryers, helping keep dangerous materials out of landfills. 

Tree recycling 

Don’t throw away your holiday trees! Artificial trees can be taken to the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center. Have a natural tree? Curbside customers can recycle natural trees on their compost collection day starting December 26. Others can drop trees off at Zilker Park on designated days. Visit austintexas.gov/treerecycling for more information.

By following these recycling tips, you can enjoy a festive season while reducing waste and helping to protect the environment. Happy Holidays!