We are going to take a brief look at wrapping paper as this is a personal vendetta I have. Last year I actually started wrapping with newspaper as it’s recyclable and I don’t have to be wasteful and buy more paper.
I find it disgusting but half of the paper America consumes each year is used to wrap and decorate consumer products. (Source: The Recycler’s Handbook, 1990) Trash created from gift wrapping alone in the US is estimated at 4 Million Tonnes. In Canada we aren’t much better. We waste 545,00 tons. These are crazy stats! We need to do something to change this as it’s for one day (not to mention wrapping the gifts is painful as well!
Here are some ideas to help you shop for your wrapping paper and reduce your waste this Christmas:
- Use wrapping paper from 100% post-consumer recycled paper. There are lots on the market now and will likely be right beside the other paper. You just have to look for the logo on the packaging that states 100% Post-Consumer Recycled Paper.
- Avoid buying the glossy paper. It may look pretty but it’s likely not recyclable at all!
- Re-use gift wrap where possible. You could allow the kids to make crafts out of it for an afternoon, or save the pieces of uncut paper for next year.
- I know it’s fun to seal that gift with a lot of tape… but it’s not necessary. Use it sparingly.
- Be creative with your wrap. As I mentioned, I use newspaper, but you could also use leftover fabric, old calendars, brochures, posters and so many other things. You just have to use your imagination.
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