Experts Advise on Common Holiday Waste Recycling Mistakes

As the holiday season approaches, waste generation surges dramatically. Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, household waste increases by approximately 25%, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). To mitigate the environmental impact, experts emphasize the importance of understanding local recycling policies and proper waste sorting.

Common Holiday Waste Recycling Mistakes

Dan Hoornweg, an energy engineering professor at Ontario Tech University, stresses the need for residents to familiarize themselves with their municipality’s recycling rules. These rules can vary considerably, leading to potential recycling mistakes that can complicate waste management efforts.

Gift Packaging

• Cardboard is a significant contributor to holiday waste due to online shopping.
• To recycle cardboard efficiently, flatten boxes and secure them.
• Beware of what materials can be recycled. Multilaminate wrapping paper, metallics, and styrofoam are not recyclable.

Christmas Trees

Many cities provide recycling programs for Christmas trees. Gerald Gorman from Boston’s Public Works Department highlights that trees can be repurposed as mulch. For effective recycling:

• Remove all ornaments and decorations.
• Avoid placing plastic tree bases or bags in recycling bins.
• Ensure no other items are mixed in to prevent contamination of recyclable materials.

Food Waste Management

Food waste poses another challenge during the holidays. Hoornweg notes that Americans discard 30-40% of their food supply. To minimize waste, residents should:

• Plan meals appropriately to avoid excess.
• Consider purchasing smaller portions, such as a 12-pound turkey instead of a larger one.
• Compost food scraps where municipal programs allow it.

In summary, increased waste during the holiday season can be managed effectively by understanding recycling rules and making conscious decisions regarding holiday waste. By following expert advice, individuals can contribute to more sustainable waste practices this festive season.