As that holiday excitement turns into “new year, new me” energy, important questions remain: What should you do with all that torn up wrapping paper? And what about the Christmas tree that’s been dropping pine needles all over your rug? So here are some tips for recycling and responsibly disposing of holiday waste.
♻️ Is Gift Wrapping Recyclable?
Yes, according to the Sanitation Department, unless there’s glitter or other embellishments on it. The same goes for holiday cards. Ribbons are not recyclable.
🎄 How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree
- Natural trees: In most cases, you can recycle a natural tree or place it on the curbside, but your best bet is to recycle it through the city. Most recycled trees are turned into wood chips, mulch, or compost, so be sure to prep your tree for recycling by removing any decor, lights, and non-organic items. You can also get creative and repurpose your tree for other home projects.
- Artificial trees: If the tree is in decent condition, and you’re just ready for a new one, consider donating it to a local organization or charity. The Christmas Tree Project also accepts tree and decoration donations to distribute to families in need around the world.
Plain gift wrap is recyclable. (Elva Etienne / Getty Images)
📯 What to Do with Old Decorations
If you have unusable decorations or holiday lights, recycle them at one of Philly’s drop-off locations. MOM’s Organic Market is accepting broken holiday lights through Jan. 31. Also, some Home Depot and Ace Hardware locations will take your faulty holiday lights and recycle them for you.
Are your decorations in good working order? Give them a new life by donating them to a local organization, a thrift store, or a hardware store.
I’ll leave you with one last tip for the overachievers out there: Take notes on how to reduce your holiday waste next year.
