Overview
- Consumer and environmental groups report up to about 20% more household waste over the holidays, underscoring the importance of correct separation.
- Use the tear test for gift wrap: uncoated paper goes to paper recycling, while coated, foil or glittered papers must be placed in residual waste.
- Cardboard boxes belong in paper recycling, and packaging tape can remain on because sorting facilities remove it during processing.
- Leftover food should be put in the bio-waste bin, with consumer advocates urging realistic portions and plans to reuse or share leftovers.
- Baking paper, dirty paper napkins and broken glass ornaments go in residual waste, and real Christmas trees should not be burned, with municipal collection offered after the holidays.