As the holidays approach, landfills rise, and pounds of plastic and non biodegradable items are added to shopping carts. But what else are you supposed to do? Gifts have to be bought for friends, family, teachers, and everyone in between. In addition, to make room for new items during the holidays, pounds of items have to be discarded. It was found in a recent survey that roughly 60% of Americans throw away an additional 30 pounds of trash per week during the holiday season (Melore). Much of this waste is accounted for in wrapping paper, gift bags, tissue paper, and food waste (Melore). So, how can waste be reduced when we hold so strongly to our traditions of overconsumption? 

Roughly 94% of Americans have access to recycling resources. Utilizing this to the best of everyone's ability, although it seems like a small amount to each individual, adds up significantly (Levins). Not only can papers, boxes, and other gift wrap be recycled, Christmas trees can as well. There are local businesses, and maybe even your city recycling, who take trees at the end of the holiday season and figure out how to use or dispose of them in the most sustainable manner (canopy). Of course, year round, the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Lovelady, and other thrift stores will take old clothes, furniture, and electronics.

If recycling seems too difficult or is inaccessible, there are still ways to be environmentally friendly with gift giving. As there has been more transparency in the media about the effects of non eco friendly practices on the environment, thousands of companies have created eco friendly products. Stores such as Target, Walmart, and other big brand names have begun selling more eco-friendly products that have recyclable containers and containers made of recycled items. Additionally, many online stores, such as Etsy, Earth Hero, and Package Free specialize in eco-friendly products, production, and packaging (Ogle). 

There is no way to eliminate all the waste during the holidays, but by reducing your share by purchasing eco-friendly products, recycling, reusing old ribbons and packaging items, you can directly contribute to the longevity of the earth.