The holiday season is often seen as a time of joy and celebration, but it also brings with it a significant increase in waste. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, household waste in the United States can increase by 25 percent between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. In 2021, the Center for Biological Diversity estimated that Americans produce an additional 5.8 million tons of waste in December alone, equivalent to the weight of 28,713 Boeing 747 airplanes. This trend is not unique to the US, as other countries such as Canada and the UK also see a rise in waste during the holiday season.
Fortunately, there are steps that can be taken to reduce this waste, with up to 80 percent of it being reusable, repurposed, or recycled. From gifts and wrapping paper to decorations and food, there are many changes that can be made to be more waste-conscious. WIRED has compiled a list of tips to help individuals make a positive impact during the holiday season.
When it comes to wrapping presents, it’s important to keep it simple. Avoid using glitter and foil, as these materials cannot be recycled. Look for wrapping paper that is labeled as recyclable, or use the “crumple test” to determine if it can be recycled. Brown paper is a great alternative, as it is affordable and can be dressed up with bows or hand-decorated for a personal touch. Reusing wrapping paper from previous years is also a great way to reduce waste.
Instead of using traditional bows and ribbons, which often end up in landfills, consider using reusable options such as fabric ribbons or bows that can be collected and reused. Another option is to get creative and use natural materials like twine or dried flowers to decorate gifts.
In conclusion, while the holiday season may be a time of excess, it’s important to be mindful of the waste we produce. By making small changes, such as using reusable materials and avoiding glitter and foil, we can all do our part to reduce waste and make the holiday season more sustainable.
