Eco-Friendly Tips to Celebrate the Holidays and Keep California Clean

Between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day, Americans produce about 25% more waste than any other time of the year. That significant increase in waste creation can negatively impact the community spaces we know and love by increasing litter and debris across the state.

That's why Clean California is urging Californians to do their part to help reduce waste and make more sustainable choices during gift exchanges, holiday decorating, and gatherings.

Here are five ways Californians can be cleaner and greener this holiday season:

• Use Recyclable Gift-Wrapping: Instead of traditional wrapping paper that often ends up in landfills, use recyclable or reusable gift wrap such as newspaper or paper bags. Don't forget to recycle the paper afterward — just remove the tape before putting it in the recycling bin. Other creative ideas for wrapping gifts include gently used scarves, handkerchiefs, or dish towels. You can also package baked goods and other edible gifts in reusable glass dishes or tins. If you are using traditional wrapping paper, please be sure to save and reuse any for the following year.

• Send E-Cards: Send electronic holiday cards instead of traditional paper cards. Or get creative and make your own cards using recyclable paper or paper scraps.

• Use Natural Decorations: If you buy a fresh holiday tree, be sure to properly dispose of it after the holidays along with other organic waste such as fallen leaves, yard clippings, and food waste. Be sure to also remove all decorations from the tree including ornaments, tinsel, garnish, glitter, etc. as many of those items are not considered organic waste. For beautiful and more sustainable decorations, choose items like pinecones, holly, and evergreen branches. You'll save money by not splurging on single-use decorations, and with proper organic waste disposal, you can return everything to nature after the holidays.

• Make Eco-Friendly Decorations a Tradition: Create eco-friendly decorations that can be reused every year. You can repurpose leftover cardboard to create a simple hanging ornament or cut out star shapes from leftover wrapping paper or holiday cards and fold into an origami star to hang. This can add a new eco-friendly tradition to any household.
• Create Greener Gatherings: When entertaining, reduce excess waste by using real dishware and utensils instead of single-use disposable plates, cups, forks, and other items. Also, use fabric tablecloths and napkins instead of paper options.

Taking small actionable steps like those above can help keep our communities cleaner and greener year-round. In addition to these tips, Californians can get involved in community cleanups throughout the year. Visit CleanCA.com to learn more.

Caltrans Clean California and Keep America Beautiful wishes you a happy and green holiday season.