Eureka’s 2023 Guide to a Zero-Waste Holiday

Mindful Gift Giving:

• Opt for used items or experiences as gifts.
• Wrap presents using recyclable paper or reusable fabric.
• Save bows, ribbons, and gift bags for future use.

Thoughtful Gift Choices:

• Give experiences like tickets to events or gift certificates to favorite restaurants.
• Purchase and refinish secondhand items, including furniture or clothing.
• Donate to a local food shelf or Toys for Tots in place of physical gifts.

Creative Wrapping Alternatives:

• Traditional wrapping paper isn’t recyclable, so consider alternatives like newspaper, comics, fabric, or reusable materials.
• Embrace creativity – include a kitchen dish towel as part of the gift and use it for wrapping.
• Reuse boxes, paper, and holiday tins from past holidays, and pack them away for the next occasion.

Waste-Free Menu Planning:

• Utilize tools like the Guestimator to plan meals (it’s amazing).
• Cook only what you can consume and share extra food with guests.
• Transform turkey, chicken, and ham leftovers into delicious soups.
• Compost food scraps in backyard bins or explore local composting programs.

Ditch Disposable Items:

• Say no to disposable plates, utensils, and plastic decorations.
• When disposal is necessary, ensure it’s done correctly by referring to our Holiday Disposal Tips Chart or utilizing our What Can I Recycle? tool.
• Check with your municipality for disposal of batteries, Christmas trees, or hazardous waste

Conscious Plastic Usage:

• Minimize single-use plastic bottles; opt for alternatives like reusable containers.
• If disposable serving ware is a must, choose BPI-certified, compostable options.
• Say goodbye to single-use straws; invest in reusable, washable alternatives.

Dispose Wisely:

While the aim is zero waste, sometimes disposal is necessary. Refer to Eureka’s Holiday Disposal Tips Chart and our What Can I Recycle tool. And please, exercise caution with lithium batteries, extension cords, and holiday lights – follow proper disposal guidelines.

From all of us at Eureka, we wish you a joyous and zero-waste holiday season! May your celebrations be environmentally conscious and set the stage for a sustainable new year