| Author: Lee Young |
The days after major holidays are often major hauling days for garbage collection companies. Just picture that monstrous pile of wadded wrapping paper under the tree after Christmas -- not to mention the tree itself -- and you'll know what we're talking about.
Paper already makes up over 30 percent of California's solid waste stream. During the Christmas season alone, the average household will generate between 3 and 10 bags of beyond-the-ordinary trash.
And with California's population topping 30 million people, that's a lot of extra waste and one heck of a "present" for the neighborhood landfill.
It's easy to go overboard with gift wrapping. We all want the gifts we give to look special and exciting -- to give those gifts that personal touch. So we run out and sometimes spend even more on expensive wrapping paper, ribbons and cards than we do on the gift itself.
There is a better way. Try putting more "gift" in your gift wrap. Instead of disposable paper, make the wrapping part of the gift. For example, wrap Mom's blouse in a matching scarf and tie it with a hair ribbon. Or "reverse" wrap by putting the best thing on the outside. Wrap a good paperback in a nice bathrobe, using the belt as a ribbon, then pop a packet of cocoa or a candy cane in the pocket. The book inside gives support to the robe so it feels like a sturdy package.
One rationale for less gift wrap could be financial considerations. For economy's sake, you can plan the cost of the "gift" wrap into your budget for the gift.
If you really want to be a spendthrift, scour the attic or flea markets for old tins, hat boxes, fabric and other containers and materials that will make a unique, funny, or appropriate package for your gift. Wrap a granddaughter's gift in grandma's old lace curtain. The lace can be saved as a family heirloom. Put a check for a college student in an old bank book or an antique encyclopedia.
The ideas are endless. Gifts can be "gift" wrapped in purses, backpacks, tool chests, tablecloths, towels, hats and bread boxes. Almost any reusable container or fabric can be used in this creative way.
No-waste gift wrapping can actually enhance the quality of your gift, showing that you have done something extra special for that special someone. It also shows that you've done something extra for the environment -- and it's a lot of fun in the bargain.
P.S. Don't forget to recycle your Christmas tree. |
Author Bio:
Maybe you don't have time to thumb through the quarterly catalog, which could be a great read with your morning coffee. If not, try CALMAX On-Line . Want to put a free ad in the CALMAX catalog, get on the mailing list or learn more? Call the California Integrated Waste Management Board at (916) 341-6603 or write the board at 1001 I Street, PO Box 4025, Sacramento, CA 95812-4025. |
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