The holidays are a time for celebration, connection and giving — but they can also create a extra waste. From wrapping paper and packaging to food leftovers and decorations, it all adds up quickly. This year, a few small swaps and mindful choices can help you celebrate the season while keeping waste to a minimum.
Here are some ways to make your holidays a little greener.
Low-Waste Gifts
- Wrap creatively – Skip single-use wrapping paper and try reusable options instead. Cloth bags tied with a ribbon make wrapping easy, especially for irregularly shaped gifts. You can also use fabric gift bags or holiday-themed cloth instead of tissue paper.
- Reuse your bows – Bows can’t be recycled, but they can be reused. Keep a basket nearby to collect them as gifts are opened and reattach them next year with double-sided tape.
- Shop local and thrift first – Before buying new, check out local small businesses or secondhand shops. You’ll often find unique, affordable items already in your community waiting for a new home.
- Give experiences instead of things – Gift an adventure or memory instead of more stuff — a concert, zoo membership, museum pass, class, or massage. Experiences often mean more and create less waste.
- Make it meaningful – DIY gifts are a hit with the people who matter most. Try creating a photo calendar, playlist, or homemade video. Regift a favorite book with a personal note, or craft a coupon book for shared experiences or help around the house. You can even gift a reusable swap — like a travel mug, cloth napkins, or washable bowl covers— to help someone else live more sustainably.
Rethink the Feast
Food brings people together, but it’s also one of the biggest sources of holiday waste. Planning ahead and making small changes can help reduce what ends up in the trash.
- Use real dishes – If possible, serve meals with washable dishes and utensils. If you need disposables, choose recyclable or compostable options. (Remember: aluminum pans are not accepted in recycling).
- Get creative with leftovers – Turn extra mashed potatoes into potato cakes, turkey into soup, or bread into croutons. Visit the Fresh Takes Recipes on SaveMoreThanFood.org for inspiration on transforming leftovers into new meals.
Deck the Halls (Sustainably)
- Thrift first – Before buying new decorations, visit your local thrift store. You’ll often find lights, ornaments, and decor that are just as festive but far more sustainable.
- Keep it organized – Use old boxes to wrap and store lights neatly for next year. It keeps your decor organized and extends the life of your lights.
After the Celebration
Once the festivities are over, it’s time to clean up sustainably. Unwanted clothes, toys, or home goods can be given new life through local thrift stores or community donation drives. Check RecycleRight.org to confirm what materials are accepted in your curbside bin. For example, Styrofoam block packaging can be dropped off at special collection sites in Franklin County, but Styrofoam cups and plates cannot. And don’t forget to share the warmth — donate gently used coats, hats, gloves, and scarves to local shelters and resource centers that help keep our community warm.
Think Ahead
The most sustainable part of the holiday season starts before it begins. Before you buy or toss something, ask yourself: Will this end up in the trash? Can I reuse it next year? Is there a lower-waste option? Can I use what I already have?
Every reused bow, thrifted gift, or composted meal saves money and reduces waste. This year, let’s celebrate joyfully and sustainably by choosing to reuse.
