Holiday Waste Reduction Tips
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) offers several tips to help families reduce waste and save money during the holiday season. By implementing these simple strategies, households can minimize their environmental impact and create a more sustainable future.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
The DNR said many items can be recycled anywhere in Wisconsin.
Introduction
The state of Wisconsin has a long history of environmental stewardship, and one of the key ways to promote this is through recycling. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has established a comprehensive recycling program that allows residents to recycle a wide range of materials. In this article, we will explore the details of the Wisconsin DNR’s recycling program and what items can be recycled in the state.
Eligible Items for Recycling
The Wisconsin DNR has identified a variety of materials that can be recycled in the state. These include:
Recycling Options
Residents of Wisconsin have several options for recycling their eligible materials.
However, some programs may not accept wrapping paper with certain types of ink or dyes.
Understanding the Recycling Process
When it comes to recycling wrapping paper, it’s essential to understand the recycling process and what materials are accepted.
Tanglers can also be found in other types of equipment, such as pumps and motors.
Understanding the Rules of Curbside Recycling
Curbside recycling is a convenient and widely available service that allows residents to recycle a variety of materials, including paper, plastic, glass, and metal. However, there are specific rules and guidelines that must be followed to ensure that materials are properly sorted and processed.
What Can Be Recycled in Curbside Recycling
What Cannot Be Recycled in Curbside Recycling
Why Are These Items Prohibited? These items are prohibited because they can cause problems during the recycling process. For example, holiday light strings and cords can wrap around equipment, causing damage and disrupting the recycling process. Tanglers can also get tangled in other equipment, such as pumps and motors. Plastic bags and wrap can get caught in machinery, causing jams and delays.
The Challenges of Bagged Recyclables
The use of bagged recyclables has become a contentious issue in the recycling industry. While it may seem convenient to simply bag up recyclable materials and toss them into the recycling bin, the reality is that this practice can lead to a multitude of problems.
Contamination and Sorting Issues**
One of the primary concerns with bagged recyclables is contamination.
Proper disposal of these items requires specialized facilities and equipment.
The Challenges of Recycling
Understanding the Limitations of Standard Recycling Facilities
Standard recycling facilities are designed to handle specific types of materials, such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal. However, they are not equipped to handle hazardous waste like batteries and electronics.
The average American consumes 11.8 pounds of turkey per person, with 46% of households reporting that they have leftovers.
Food dates are a guide, not a guarantee, of a product’s quality and freshness.
The USDA does not regulate the use of dates on food products. The “Best By” and “Use By” labels are regulated by the FDA, not the USDA. The FDA regulates the use of these labels to ensure that consumers are not misled about the safety of the product.
Understanding the Purpose of Food Dates
What Do Food Dates Mean? Food dates are labels that manufacturers provide to indicate the peak quality and freshness of their products. These dates are not regulated by federal law and do not necessarily indicate food safety. Instead, they serve as a guide for consumers and retailers to determine when a product is at its best.
Plan ahead to avoid food waste and make hosting a breeze.
Planning and Preparation
When it comes to hosting gatherings, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of preparing for guests. However, this enthusiasm can sometimes lead to overbuying and, ultimately, food waste. To avoid this, it’s essential to plan and prepare ahead of time. Consider the number of guests you’ll be hosting and the length of the gathering. Make a list of the dishes you want to serve and the ingredients needed. Plan your menu around seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients to reduce waste. Shop for ingredients in bulk, but avoid overbuying.*
Organizing Your Fridge
Once you have your plan in place, it’s time to organize your fridge. The Store It Guide provides a comprehensive guide on how to optimize your fridge space, including:
Frozen eggs can be used in cooking and baking.