Top tips for recycling this Christmas
In the UK we are estimated to use almost 300,000 tonnes of card packaging at Christmas, according to Recycle Now – a staggering amount which, when laid out, would cover the return distance between London and Lapland 103 times – and would wrap Big Ben almost 260,000 times!
As waste is increased by up to 25% during the festive period here are five top tips to help you recycle this Christmas
- Flatten cardboard boxes before recycling to save room in the recycling container.
- Remove ribbons, bows, and batteries before recycling Christmas cards (Why not turn your old Christmas cards into gift tags, a great way to personalise your presents and save money too!)
- Remove all food from card and paper packaging before recycling.
- Do the scrunch test! With the exception of the shiny metallic and glitter varieties, all paper, including wrapping paper, is recyclable. To find out if paper is recyclable try the ‘scrunch test’, paper that is recyclable stays in a ball when it is scrunched in the hand.
- Steer clear of using disposable table ware and cutlery, it’s hard to recycle paper plates that have sodden with food.
Why not include your top recycling tips in your Christmas cards this year?
If you haven’t already done so, sign up to take part in Waste Week which takes place next March. The focus for our campaign is 'Lunchtime Crunchtime'. We'll have a whole menu of resources for you to digest and chew over, covering the topic of food waste.
We wish you all a relaxing break,
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at the Pod.