During the festive season we consume more: all kinds of objects, wrapping paper, decorations and food appear in abundance in every corner of the house. The consequence, despite our best efforts, is an exponential increase in waste.
At this time of year it’s very important to take care in separating out our recycling: many items are in fact ‘false friends’ and are often thrown into the wrong bin.
Obviously, waste regulations vary from municipality to municipality (always check your city guide!), but some tips still apply.
- Tree Decorations – You have to dispose of them all in the non-recyclable waste. Yes, even the plastic and glass ones. They are not packaging and could cause problems when recycling.
- Christmas tree – If it’s artificial, try to use it for as long as possible; if you really have to get rid of it, take it to the waste disposal site (also called a collection centre or EcoCentre). If it’s real, you have two options: re-plant it in the garden (if possible) or dispose of it with garden waste.
- Christmas lights – These are classified as WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment): they must therefore be taken to the EcoCentre or to the designated collection areas in the city. Don’t give in to the temptation to throw them in the non-recyclable bin!
- Batteries and Accumulators – Again, this is special waste, so take them to the EcoCentre or to the appropriate collection sites.
- Crockery – Whether ceramic, Pyrex, crystal or porcelain it makes little difference: it should always be disposed of in the non-recyclable bin.
- Aluminium trays and foil – Always in the plastic, like the rest of the year.
- Oven paper – In non-recyclable waste.
- Corks – In the wood collection (if present) or in the bins of organisations that deal specifically with this increasingly rare material.
- Food wrappers – check the icon on the packaging: most likely it will be plastic or paper.
There is no better way to end the festivities than with a little extra care for the environment!
