How to responsibly dispose of holiday stuff

By Lori Bongiorno

Posted Mon Dec 29, 2008 9:29am PST

Related topics: Holidays, Recycling, Recycling tips

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The holidays are over. Now, it's time to get rid of your tree and figure out what to do with all the extra stuff accumulating in your home. Resist the temptation to just pile everything into big black garbage bags and send it to the dump.

Here are suggestions for post-holiday disposal that's light on the planet.

Christmas trees can't biodegrade in landfills so take advantage of tree recycling events. Many communities offer curbside pick-up or have established places where you can bring your tree for recycling. Find out what your nearby options are at Earth911. Consider starting a Christmas tree recycling program if need be.

Take the time to remove everything from your tree. "Tinsel is a no-no for Christmas tree recycling because the trees will be composted or mulched, and the tinsel won't break down in this process," says Trey Granger at Earth911. "The same thing goes for the artificial snow that can be added to make trees white." If you leave tinsel on, it will be removed by hand so your tree can still be recycled. It's a different story for trees with spray-painted snow. Granger says they'll be sent to a landfill.   

Skip the tree bag. Instead, the Natural Resources Defense Council suggests wrapping your tree in a sheet to avoid a trail of pine needles when you carry it out of your home.

You can also reuse your tree. Some ideas: Consider placing it in your backyard or in a pond as a refuge for wildlife. Lay the branches as mulch on planting beds when the weather warms up. Turn dried pine needles into a potpourri.

Here are some ideas for the most common waste associated with the holidays.  A general rule of thumb: Finding a way to reuse something is always best for the planet. Recycling comes in at a close second.  

• Old incandescent holiday lights can be recycled through HolidayLEDs' free mail-in program.
• Donate glass ornaments or see if you local recycler accepts them. Paint, feathers, sequins, glitter, and other decorations may make them difficult to recycle.
• Greeting cards are accepted by most curbside programs. Restrictions may apply for those that have electronic parts or metallic coatings, according to Earth911.
• Wrapping paper and gift bags are not great candidates for recycling, although it all depends on what they're made of and what your local recycler takes back. Follow these guidelines to make sure your gift boxes are properly recycled.
• Electronic waste can really pile up after the holidays. Many retailers now take back old cell phones, laptops, and other unwanted stuff. There are also options for those who prefer to recycle by mail. SeeEarth911 for more ideas.