Environment Lethbridge encouraging waste reduction during the holidays

As wrapped gifts begin piling up under your tree, officials say don't forget what can and cannot be recycled.

With many people picking up last-minute items and wrapping them to add to the pile under their trees, officials are offering a reminder of what can and can’t be recycled.

While the holidays see a spike in garbage being collected, organizations in Lethbridge are hoping a little creativity can help reduce that waste.

A staple under many Christmas trees are beautifully wrapped presents, decorated in colourful paper, ribbons and bows.

But those items put a big strain on the environment.

“The majority of gift wrap is not recyclable,” said Kathleen Sheppard, Environment Lethbridge executive director.

“All of the things that make it shiny and pretty, usually that’s a plastic coating overtop of the paper, so it’s not accepted in your blue bin.”

Sheppard says there are environmentally friendly ways to wrap presents—all you need is a little creativity.

“Lots of people turn to the brown craft paper and then a little bit of added decoration makes a nice touch, but things like gift bags are a nice alternative,” said Sheppard.

But it’s not just the use of wrapping paper and decorations that increases during the holidays.

“All of your food waste, even things like parchment paper if you’re a baker … that can also go into your green bin,” said Sheppard.

“So (it’s) a great time of year to make use of getting those organics into the right place.”

And being environmentally friendly doesn’t just have to happen around Christmas.

“Giving the gift of an experience is not only green and sustainable, but it’s something that you can enjoy throughout the year,” said Erin Crane, Tourism Lethbridge CEO.

While the winter season tends to be slower for tourist destinations in the city, Crane says alternative gifts like ski passes, classes and tickets can have a lasting impact on both people and businesses.

“A membership at the Galt Museum or the Southern Alberta Art Gallery or Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, then you get to enjoy those attractions throughout the year,” said Crane.

Finally, if you have a Christmas tree set up this week, the City of Lethbridge’s Christmas tree collection program will take place Jan. 10.