Reducing Waste during the Winter Season

Winter is a time when we often find ourselves surrounded by piles of rubbish. From leftover food that no one wants to eat to wrapping paper, ornaments, beverage bottles, yard waste, and unwanted gifts, the amount of waste can quickly add up. However, just like any other time of the year, we can take steps to reduce waste through habits of reducing, reusing, and recycling. By following the five tips below, you can not only reduce the amount of waste your household produces but also save money in the process. Remember, everything you throw into a landfill represents money you are throwing away.

1. Yard Waste: Late fall and winter produce yard waste in the form of dead leaves, grass trimmings, branches, and dead flowers. To reduce yard waste and improve the health of your yard, consider investing in a mulching mower. This type of mower recycles grass clippings back into your yard. Additionally, leaves and other dead plant matter can be turned into mulch or composted to create fertilizer. Landscaping with rock gardens and evergreens can also help reduce yard waste.

2. Food Waste: Careful planning is key to avoiding food waste. Plan menu cycles and think of creative ways to use leftovers. For example, leftover meat, beans, or vegetables can be added to a stew or soup. Make a shopping list before heading to the store and stick with it to avoid impulse purchases. If you buy more food than your family can eat, freeze the extra food in separate meal-sized portions. This way, you can quickly and conveniently reheat them in a microwave. Finally, compost leftover food scraps to create a rich fertilizer for your garden.

3. Holiday Wrappings and Ornaments: Instead of spending extra money on packaging that goes directly into the garbage, consider alternative options. Reusable stockings can be an attractive way to display small gifts. Carefully unwrap gifts to reuse wrappings. You can also reuse ornamental shopping bags or create attractive totes using crocheting or knitting techniques. These totes can serve as “wrapping” for gifts and be used long after the holidays. Ornaments can also be reused. Rather than buying and disposing of an indoor Christmas tree, plant a pine or fir tree outdoors and decorate it. Place your presents beneath a window overlooking the living tree for a unique holiday display.

4. Gifts: While giving gifts is a winter holiday tradition, it can also contribute to landfill waste. Consider donating unwanted gifts to those in need. The day after Christmas, known as “Boxing Day,” was traditionally a day to box up unwanted gifts and donate them to the poor. Items like ugly sweaters or unused toys can bring warmth and happiness to those less fortunate. For older children and adults, consider giving something useful like phone minutes or a gift card. Younger children can benefit from downloadable films or games that have no packaging at all. Ultimately, donating to charity or volunteering at a soup kitchen aligns more with the spirit of the holidays and creates no waste at all.

5. Shopping: Winter sales often result in numerous bags and excessive packaging. Save money and landfill space by investing in inexpensive, reusable tote bags. These bags can be used for all of your shopping needs and reduce the amount of single-use plastic bags that end up in landfills.

By implementing these tips, you can significantly reduce the amount of waste your household produces during the winter season. Not only will this benefit the environment, but it can also save you money in the long run. Remember, every small effort counts when it comes to reducing waste and creating a more sustainable future.