American’s waste generation per household increases 25 percent, or almost 1,000 pounds of trash, between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day; almost 80 percent of what is thrown away during the holidays could have been recycled or repurposed, according to the U. S. EPA.
The most common non-recyclables contaminating the recycling waste stream during the holiday season include bubble wrap, cellophane, string/rope, ribbons and bows, batteries, food, and clothing. Some of these are recyclable at special drop off locations, but NOT in the curbside bin.
Plan to compost fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, egg shells, tea bags and other organic non-dairy (and no meat items) in your backyard or local compost bin.
And don’t forget to Bring One for the Chipper and recycle Christmas trees, with all ornaments, stands, and lights REMOVED!
