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Reducing holiday waste this season

The Waste-Less Holiday Market

The Waste-Less Holiday Market is an initiative by the Reuse Centre to promote sustainable living and reduce waste during the holiday season. The market features a variety of locally-made gifts created from reused materials, such as:

  • Upcycled jewelry made from old keys, bottle caps, and other discarded items
  • Handmade soaps and candles crafted from recycled materials
  • Repurposed home decor items, such as old mason jars turned into vases
  • Unique clothing items made from repurposed fabric scraps
  • These gifts are not only eco-friendly but also offer a unique and thoughtful way to show appreciation for loved ones.

    The Impact of Holiday Waste

    The holiday season is notorious for generating a significant amount of waste. According to the City of Edmonton, Edmontonians produce nearly double the amount of waste in December compared to the rest of the year. This is largely due to the increased use of single-use plastics, packaging materials, and disposable items. Single-use plastics, such as straws, bags, and water bottles, contribute significantly to holiday waste

  • Excessive packaging materials, such as wrapping paper and gift boxes, also contribute to waste
  • Disposable items, such as holiday decorations and tableware, are often used once and then discarded
  • By attending the Waste-Less Holiday Market, Edmontonians can make a positive impact on the environment and reduce their holiday waste.

    Making a Difference

    The Waste-Less Holiday Market offers a unique opportunity for Edmontonians to make a positive impact on the environment.

    The Benefits of Buying Locally Sourced Items

    Buying locally sourced items can have a significant impact on reducing waste. When we purchase products from local farmers and producers, we are more likely to choose items that are seasonal and in season, which reduces the need for transportation and packaging. This approach also supports the local economy and promotes sustainable agriculture. Some benefits of buying locally sourced items include:

  • Reduced carbon footprint
  • Lower packaging waste
  • Support for local farmers and producers
  • Freshness and quality of products
  • The Impact of Meal Planning on Reducing Waste

    Meal planning is another effective way to reduce waste. By planning our meals in advance, we can avoid buying too much food that may go to waste.

    The city also asks residents to check their Christmas lights for broken bulbs and to follow the WasteWise special instructions when dropping them off.

    Holiday Recycling and Donation

    As the holiday season comes to a close, many of us are left with a pile of unwanted gifts, decorations, and other items that no longer serve a purpose. Rather than contributing to the growing problem of waste and clutter, we can take steps to recycle and donate these items.

    Gift Wrapping and Paper

  • Gift wrapping paper, boxes, and bags can be recycled at participating local recycling centers. Many retailers offer special holiday recycling programs for wrapping paper and other materials. Some communities also have special holiday collection events for wrapping paper and other materials. ## Electronics and Batteries*
  • Electronics and Batteries

  • Electronics with batteries, such as toys, remote controls, and other devices, can be recycled at designated drop-off locations. The city provides special instructions for recycling electronics with batteries, which can be found on the WasteWise website. Residents are asked to check their electronics for batteries and to follow the WasteWise special instructions when dropping them off. ## Christmas Lights*
  • Christmas Lights

  • Christmas lights with broken bulbs can be recycled at designated drop-off locations.
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