Dreaming of a green Christmas
This time of year can be a time for excess, but we’ve gathered together some hints and tips, including some from our very own Recycling Champions, to help you have a greener Christmas.
Greener gifts
Make some room for your new toys and gifts by donating things that you no longer use in the run-up to the big day. Most charity shops see a dip in donations at this time of year, yet it is one of their busiest times for sales. You will not only be freeing up some much-needed space, but you’ll be contributing towards the circular economy and who knows, your donations could be just the gift someone is looking for. Our new reuse shop has two donation points at Emerald Street and Weaving Lane Household Waste and Recycling Centres, and you can also make donations in the Huddersfield-based store. To find out more information visit Our Shops – (reviveleeds.co.uk)
Move over Secret Santa, why not try a Charity shop Christmas Challenge? Set a small budget amongst your family or friends and shop pre-loved for the perfect gift. With a great selection of charity shops to choose from in Kirklees, alongside our new Reuse shop in Huddersfield town centre, you’ll be spoilt for choice. It is the perfect way to save the planet while also saving money, which has never been more important.
That’s a wrap
Green gifts deserve greener wrapping, so why not purchase scarves to wrap gifts, they’re not only reusable but people also get a second gift. You can source them second-hand online or in shops to save money too. If you need to buy wrapping paper, make sure it is recyclable, plasticized paper and paper or card finished with glitter can’t be recycled but can be reused for future gifts or craft projects.
Food glorious food
Make good use of lists and freezer space this festive period to avoid as much food waste as possible, those special offers aren’t such a good deal if the extra food just ends up in the bin! A little food waste, however, is unavoidable. Consider getting a composter to transform waste into nutrient-rich compost for your plants. We still have a great offer with Original Organics where residents can receive a 40% discount.
Christmas crafts
If you have extra time on your hands, you could consider making gifts this year rather than buying them. It could be the perfect way to use up materials or ingredients you have lying around and save money too. If you aren’t very creative, there are lots of ideas online and you can get the kids involved, or you could even consider giving homemade gift vouchers – e.g., “an evening of babysitting”, or “a full roast dinner at your convenience”!
Treecycling
If you’re indulging in a real tree this year, then make sure you take advantage of the tree recycling, or “Treecycling” service offered by Forget Me Not Hospice and The Kirkwood. For a small donation, your chosen charity will collect and recycle your tree in the New Year. You can read more about treecycling here.
Bin Collections
No one wants to worry about waste this winter, that’s why our Christmas collection dates, excess policy, and bin calendars for 2023 are now live. You can read our Christmas bin update here.
Thanks to our Recycling Champions for supplying some of these excellent environment and money-saving festive tips. If you are interested in the environment, recycling and reuse, and like sharing information with others, or would simply like to understand more about recycling and waste minimisation, you could become a Recycling Champion! Find out more about the Recycling Champion role on our website.
Wishing you a wonderful Christmas from the waste team and a happy 2023!