Tips to cut back on waste this holiday season

With the holiday season in full swing, now is the time to ask yourself if you can commit to doing just one thing differently this season to help reduce holiday-related waste. As gifts, gift wrapping, get-togethers and decorations can create a lot of additional waste, we’ve created a list of suggestions on how to create memories, not garbage:

Give experiences instead of physical gifts

Giving a low-waste gift is only limited by your creativity!  Here are a few unique experiences right here in the Township of Langley:

Plan a local nature tour.

Whether you venture out and enjoy an extensive trail system, a short stroll, bird watching or a picnic location, there are many places to connect with nature. Take a look at our Neighbourhood Nature Tour to plan an outdoor adventure with your loved ones.

Check out an art exhibit.

Support local artists in our community. Pop’d Arts is a pop-up art gallery in Fort Langley, brought to you by salishan Place by the River. On until June 2023, Pop'd Arts showcases local artists with a pop-up exhibition every month for one weekend. Learn more.

Find over 200 low-waste gift ideas by price range by using Metro Vancouver’s Merry Memory Maker tool.

Use reusable materials for gift wrap

Instead of using store bought wrapping paper, there are more sustainable options that can also cut back on costs. Be creative and consider wrapping gifts in reusable fabrics such as scarves and dishcloths. You can also use newspaper, brown paper bags, or old maps and calendars. The options are endless! If gift wrap is needed, look to purchase wrapping paper that is 100% paper and free of foil or other embellishments. This way you can recycle the paper in your yellow bag. Discover more ways to be wrap wise.

Let your inner sustainable foodie shine

From the work parties to the family get-togethers, there is a lot of food waste that is generated during this time of year. Did you know region-wide, 30 percent of what we send to the landfill every day is food? This year, have a sustainable gathering by choosing reusable options when possible and only preparing the food you need. Learn how to reduce your food waste.

Post-holiday clean up  

While cleaning up after the holidays may seem like a far-off thought, planning ahead will help reduce the amount of garbage that gets set out at the curb and the need to purchase Extra Garbage stickers. Brush up on what does and does not go in the recycling, green cart, and garbage. If you need to dispose of household waste such as small appliances, electronics, batteries and string lights, these items can be recycled year-round and free-of-charge thanks to provincial recycling programs. View the extensive list of items that can be taken back to a depot.

Once the holidays are over be sure to reduce, reuse and recycle what you can to minimize your holiday waste. Find more tips on what to do after the holidays are over.

When it’s time to say goodbye to your Christmas tree, choose a sustainable way to dispose of your tree by taking it to a Recycling and Waste Centre for composting or take part in a community tree-chipping event. Find a community tree-chipping event near you.

Make this holiday season one that is joyful and sustainable by creating lasting memories without unnecessary waste. For more ideas and tips on how to celebrate with less waste this season, visit Metro Vancouver’s create memories, not garbage website.

Engineering Division
604-532-7300
opsinfo@tol.ca