Waste isn't just for Christmas . . .

The Christmas period is a time for family, friends, giving, sharing and, unfortunately, waste (and usually lots of it!). Wrapping paper, boxes, cards and leftover food are just some of the things that many people will send to landfill this year, which has obvious environmental consequences. 

So, instead of mindlessly throwing away your waste, have a think about how it could be put to better use or how it can be reduced (which will help the environment too!). Here are some tips:

• make lists before going Christmas shopping. Making sure you only buy what you need will help reduce waste;
• re-use Christmas cards (not as Christmas cards though!). Cut old cards up and use them as tags on presents;
• if you are sending cards, why not send an e-card?! It will cost less and is waste-free;
• compost any leftovers;
• take reusable bags with you or purchase a 'bag for life', which will reduce the amount of single use bags used and the amount of plastic going to landfill;
• avoid using wrapping paper and try and use gift bags which can be used several times over;
• buy a real Christmas tree with the roots still attached - this way you can replant it and use it year after year (or, if you can't find one with the roots still attached, take your real tree to a local recycling centre when you're finished with it, where it will be chipped and re-used in the local community);
• many new toys require batteries, so buy rechargeable batteries to avoid waste.

However, if you decide you'd rather throw the waste away, make sure you check with your local authority what can be recycled and recycle as much as you possibly can.