WENATCHEE — The holiday season brings joy, family gatherings, and gift-giving, but it also leaves behind significant environmental impacts. From discarded wrapping paper to uneaten food, the season’s excess can take a toll on the planet. Here are some ways to make celebrations more sustainable.
Wrapping paper
One of the most visible sources of holiday waste is wrapping paper. Many types, especially those with foil, glitter, or plastic coatings, aren’t recyclable, according to Waste Management. Instead, opt for alternatives like reusable cloth bags, brown kraft paper, or even newspaper.
A helpful tool called “The Waste Wizard,” a search engine designed by North Central Washington Sustainability, that can tell you how to reuse, recycle, or dispose of a type of item.
Trees: real vs. artificial
Choosing a Christmas tree can also have environmental implications. Real trees, often seen as a more sustainable option, are biodegradable and support local agriculture. After the holidays, real trees can be recycled.
