A friend and I were talking the other day about the holidays. Mostly about how expensive it is and how people spend a lot of time planning, prepping, eating and buying. Then the topic of Trash came up. Boxes arriving in the mail, an abundance of bags from the store, packaging of new gifts, food that isn't eaten, etc. There is a lot that gets thrown away this time of year!
Here are a few facts that might make you cringe:
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According to the Medical University of South Carolina, waste output increases by at least 25% during the holiday season.
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Traditional paper gift wrap can not be recycled. It is considered a contaminant because of its high clay and ink content and low fiber content.
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If every family didn't use traditional wrapping paper on 3 gifts, it would save enough paper to cover 45,000 football fields.
Today I wanted to focus on Gift Wrapping and tips to help reduce waste. Your friends and family will appreciate what you are doing!
Less packaging. This one isn't hard. Just reduce! This year forgo your big ribbons and bows. Use twine or yarn and top with an evergreen sprig from your tree or a small pinecone from your yard.
Use gift bags instead of gift wrap because you can use them again.
What is already in your recycle bin? Use it to wrap! Comics, posters, maps, stylish magazines, calendars.
Kid’s artwork makes the best wrap. Use what you have - large drawing sheets, construction paper, brown paper bags - have them draw or paint a festive design. I guarantee it won't get thrown away!
Give a gift in an item that can be reused. Need ideas?
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A mason jar (or any size jar!).
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Baskets (what can't be put in a basket?)
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A stainless steel or glass kitchen container (I would love to find some cookies in mine!).
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Cloth grocery bag. Definitely will be used again and again!
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Wrap a gift in a gift. A scarf with a gift tucked inside?
I am normally not a fan of wrapping, but after writing this post I am getting inspired. How many different unique ideas can I come up with this year? I am excited to find out!
This guest post is written by Courtney, a crunchy mama of 3 boys, who is passionate about healthy living and keeping her home green. Check out her blog at CrunchyBeachMama.com