North Raleigh Today

The holiday season is often associated with an increase in waste production, as noted by the solid waste and recycling industry. During this period, the United States sees a 25 percent rise in waste compared to other times of the year. This surge results in an additional one million tons of waste being sent to landfills weekly. Moreover, recycling facilities face challenges due to increased contamination from "wish-cycling," where individuals recycle non-recyclable materials.

Gift-wrapping materials significantly contribute to this seasonal waste. Each year, approximately 2.3 million pounds of wrapping paper end up in landfills. To recycle wrapping paper, it must be free from additives like glitter, plastic, or foil. The recyclability can be determined using "The Scrunch Test." If scrunched into a ball and it holds its shape, the paper is recyclable; otherwise, it should be discarded.

To minimize wrapping waste, consider using reused materials instead of new wrapping paper. Suggestions include brown paper grocery bags with personal designs, cookie tins, magazines and newspapers, paper maps, reusable bags, sheet music, or even fabric scraps such as scarves and bandanas. This method takes inspiration from Furoshiki, a traditional Japanese practice of wrapping items in cloth.

For those with questions about holiday recycling and waste management in Raleigh, the Reuse Waste Wizard and App are available resources for guidance.