Curious Nature: The importance of refusing waste during the holiday season

The holiday season is a time for celebration, generosity, and gathering with loved ones. While these traditions create cherished memories, they can also lead to a significant increase in waste and energy consumption. One of the most effective ways to celebrate more sustainably is by embracing the often most overlooked “R” of sustainability: Refuse. Refusing unnecessary waste before it enters your home is often far more impactful than trying to recycle or dispose of it later. Wrap Sustainably and Creatively One simple place to start is by rethinking gift wrap. Traditional wrapping paper is often coated with glitter, foil or plastic, making it difficult or impossible to recycle. Instead, choose creative alternatives that can be reused or recycled after the holidays. Old newspapers, comic strips, maps, calendars, grocery bags, fabric, scarves or bandanas can all become unique and beautiful gift wrap while giving new life to materials you already have.

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