The biggest shopping days of the year also kick off the biggest time of the year for waste. While remembering to keep yourself and your family safe this holiday season, consider keeping the environment safe as well.
During the holidays, the combined total of wrapping paper, shopping bags and boxes accounts for 4 percent of the total solid waste generated in Los Angeles County each year. Holiday cards alone add an additional 4.4 million tons of trash.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Works has devised the following list of ways to reduce waste during the holidays.
- Recycle your wrapping paper and Christmas cards (except those with metallic surfaces), in the mixed paper bin.
- Reuse gift bags and boxes, or recycle them.
- Purchase live Christmas trees that can be replanted after the holidays.
- Set tables with linens and china instead of non-recyclable disposable paper plates, plastic cups and utensils.
- Don't throw away old toys or clothing. Now is the time to donate them to a charitable organization to ensure that they are reused.