The holidays are a time of lights, cheer, and togetherness. But after all that beauty, there's often still waste left over: packaging, decorations, leftovers... What do you do with it? With a few smart habits, you can keep things sustainable and tidy – both at home and in the neighborhood.
1. Broken Christmas balls
A broken Christmas ornament looks like glass, but it does not belong in the glass recycling bin. Christmas ornaments, oven dishes, and (wine) glasses have a different melting point than packaging glass. Therefore, dispose of them with the residual waste. Not sure? Check the separation guide.
2. Lighting and decoration
Christmas lights that no longer work belong in electrical waste (e-waste). Take them to a hardware store, electronics store, or with your recycling pass to the recycling center. This way, valuable materials are reused. Floral foam (oasis) from Christmas decorations belongs in the residual waste. Small branches can be disposed of with the organic waste.
Tip: Store your Christmas lights neatly rolled up in a box, so they last longer next year.
3. Candles and mood lighting
- Empty aluminum tea light cups can be disposed of with the plastic, metal, and other waste.
- Leftover candle wax? Reuse it or throw it in the trash.
- Floral foam or plastic decorations also belong in the residual waste.
4. Food and drink
After all that delicious food, there are often leftovers. Don't just throw them away.
- Make soup or a casserole from leftovers.
- Leftover drinks can be stored in closed bottles.
- Food waste without packaging may be placed in the organic waste container – including the turkey carcass
5. Gift wrapping
Paper, ribbon and boxes pile up quickly.
- Set aside good, attractive boxes for reuse. And flatten and crush boxes you no longer use before disposing of them with your paper recycling.
- Remove plastic tape and filler: this belongs in the residual waste.
- If the wrapping film or paper isn't tearing properly, it belongs in the residual waste.
Start the new year clean together
After New Year's Eve, fireworks debris often litters the streets. Help clean it up. Together, we'll create a fresh start to the year. Want to help out in your neighborhood? Borrow a litter grabber for free via milieucoach@waardlanden.nlThis way, we'll keep our neighborhood clean together and start the new year feeling refreshed. Even small actions can make a big difference. Together, we'll reduce waste, maintain a clean neighborhood, and create a pleasant living environment. This way, we'll navigate the seasons together – step by step, toward a waste-free future.