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Recycling holiday giftwrap

A box wrapped in brown packing paper with a cornflower blue velvet ribbon, with assorted giftwrapping supplies such as wrapping paper, scissors, boxes, etc. scattered across the table
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

Recycling holiday giftwrap

The excitement of receiving a beautifully wrapped gift is part of the joy of the holiday season or any special occasion. However, once the wrapping paper is torn off and the presents are unwrapped, many people are left wondering: What should I do with all that leftover gift wrap? 

Americans create 25% more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day than any other time of year -- that's a lot! The good news is that while some holiday-related wrappings should go directly in the trash, much can be recycled.

With a few simple steps, we can all make a positive environmental impact while still celebrating in style.

A gift box wrapped in brown recyclable paper, adorned with a sprig of spruce

Plain brown craft paper is always recyclable and makes a great blank canvas to spruce up with natural embellishments

An array of red, white, and brown holiday gift bags with tissue paper peeking out

Simple and plain tissue paper is typically recyclable with other mixed paper in curbside programs

An open cardboard box with an orange cat peeking out

Cardboard is almost universally accepted by curbside recycling programs - just be sure to break them down first!

Glitter can contaminate the recycling process - do not recycle wrapping paper, tissue paper, cards, or other materials with glitter

Often made with a foil-like finish, most curbside recycling programs will not accept metallic wrapping paper

Plastic and fabric ribbons or bows cannot be recycled -- consider reusing or upcycling them instead!

Gift wrap that is covered with excessive tape can not be processed in standard recycling facilities

Fabric bags or pouches can be reused for years and can be used for more than just giftwrap!

Some cultures use square pieces of fabric to wrap and tie gifts instead of paper - use napkins or make your own!

Use ribbons or bows for other giftwrap purposes, or use them in craft projects to give them a new life

Thank you for celebrating sustainably!

Recycling gift wrap is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and contribute to a greener planet. By following some easy steps and being mindful of the materials we use, we can keep the holiday season—and all special occasions—both festive and eco-friendly.

So, next time you unwrap that beautiful gift, take a moment to recycle responsibly and help spread joy to the planet as well as to your loved ones.