| New Year’s Eve | 420 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/New Years Eve | New Year’s Eve | <div class="ExternalClassCF5BFB1EA0964E4F83407B93E46B5C43"><p>A time for reflection, a time for celebration, a time for single-use items that add to our landfill.</p><p>Create memories, not garbage this New Year’s Eve:</p><ul><li>Send electronic invitations instead of paper</li><li>Invest in decorations that are long lasting and carefully store them for next year </li><li>Use reusable dishware, stemware and napkins</li><li>Rent what you don’t have (extra chairs, tables, etc.) instead of buying them </li><li>Send leftovers home with your party guests as a thank you/party favour</li></ul><p>Before you purchase something, think about where that item will end up when you’re done using it. Plastic tinsel, plastic garland and non-paper additives (like glitter) are not recyclable and end up in the garbage. Instead, ring in the New Year with reusable materials (cotton, glass), recyclable materials (paper), or compostable materials (food) to decorate your home.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/newyears.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/newyears.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/newyearshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| O Christmas tree | 61 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/O Christmas tree | O Christmas tree | <div class="ExternalClass820F525DEE6740A3ACB21CE58CEFD345"><p>Real tree? Unless it’s been sprayed with fake snow, it can be recycled. Remove all ornaments, including tinsel, and bring it to a transfer station where it will be composted along with other yard waste. Find a location on <a href="http://mvrecycles.org/">mvrecycles.org</a> (search “Christmas Tree”). Or check your municipality’s website for local chip-ups. </p><p>Next year, consider renting a potted tree for the holidays.</p><p>Artificial tree? Pack it away carefully to use next year. If you need to get rid of it, consider selling or donating it.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/oldchristmastree.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/oldchristmastree.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/oldchristmastreeshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Reuse or recycle wrapping paper | 62 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Reuse or recycle wrapping paper | Reuse or recycle wrapping paper | <div class="ExternalClassDA3FE7BC27FF47F98B52F6A983A9577A"><p>Paper gift wrap can go in your paper recycling if you receive curbside recycling collection. Watch out for gift wrap made of plastic, foil, or with texture from non-paper additives like glitter – these can't be recycled.<br></p><p>Even better – re-use wrapping paper. Carefully flatten and fold large pieces to be used again. (Kids especially won't notice the same paper being used year over year.) Smaller pieces can be used to make gift tags or folded into festive envelopes. Particularly creased pieces can be shredded to provide protective cushioning for gifts throughout the year, or to protect delicate Christmas decorations while in storage.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/usedwrapping.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/usedwrapping.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/usedwrappingshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Be kind to your Christmas decorations | 63 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Be kind to your christmas decorations | Be kind to your Christmas decorations | <div class="ExternalClassD69CC5E9551C478BA13A25151A439C24"><p>Store decorations away carefully and you'll be able to use them year on year – meaning less waste going to landfill and reducing your need to buy new stuff.</p><p>You can use shredded wrapping paper or packaging from new toys or gadgets to protect delicate items. Wrap tinsel and strings of Christmas lights around a paper towel tube or a plastic bottle to avoid tangling. Label boxes so you can find them again easily.</p><p>If you don't have any space for storage, don't throw away decorations – pack them away neatly and donate or sell them</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/storechristmasdecoration.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/storechristmasdecoration.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/storechristmasdecorationshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Electronic waste | 64 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Electronic waste | Electronic waste | <div class="ExternalClassB59648E78E8B485E9A0BDCCDFCB73D34"><p>Did you upgrade to the latest model of that gadget this Christmas? Make sure to dispose of your old one properly. Consider selling or donating the item if it still works. </p><p>Recycling electronic items keeps harmful chemicals out of our environment. Anything with a battery or plug can be recycled. And you don’t need to take it apart, just drop it off.</p><p>Find a depot near you at <a href="http://www.metrovancouverrecycles.org/" target="_blank">metrovancouverrecycles.org</a>.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/electronicwaste.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/electronicwaste.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/electronicwasteshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Have a swap party | 65 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Have a swap party | Have a swap party | <div class="ExternalClass861017CB2D0D4662B369BC791593846E"><p>You may not be in love with the fringed, mesh muscle shirt that one of your over-zealous co-workers gave you, but someone else might go gaga over it! Planning a swap party is simple – just invite a few favorite friends to bring over their unwanted gifts, serve some yummy snacks and beverages, and let the trading begin!</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/unwantedgifts.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/unwantedgifts.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/unwantedgiftsshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Regifting | 66 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Regifting | Regifting | <div class="ExternalClassD3FF3575EAAB41D5BF7439C8D183B37E"><p>If you've got a gift that you know someone else will enjoy more than you will, why not give it to them? Start a 'gift drawer' to collect new beautiful items that you can see being perfect for future birthdays, housewarmings, etc. If you're worried about giving a gift back to the gifter, keep a notepad in the drawer and jot down who gave it to you when you add a new item.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/regifting.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/regifting.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/regiftingshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Donate unwanted items | 67 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Donate unwanted items | Donate unwanted items | <div class="ExternalClass8AD2C4917D2146D38B00154830189EE1"><p>Give away items that you don't want or won't use, or old items that have been replaced by something shiny and new. Make sure the items you donate are clean and in good working condition.</p><p>Dropping items off on the way to do errands is a cinch and in many cases, pickups can be arranged free of charge. Search online for charities or thrift stores that will accept your donations.</p><br></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/donate.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/donate.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/donateshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Use up leftovers | 68 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Use up leftovers | Use up leftovers | <div class="ExternalClass57ECA1D8FA4847F0B213CAA2775D9F1E"><p>A lot of resources went into preparing your holiday meal – land, water, and energy, not to mention your time and money! Make the most of it by using up all your leftovers. </p><p>Freeze goodies for later consumption (shortbread tastes delicious in January) or give away leftovers to friends and family. Visit <a href="http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.ca/" target="_blank">lovefoodhatewaste.ca</a> for more ideas and recipes to use up your Christmas leftovers.</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/turkeysandwich.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/turkeysandwich.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/turkeysandwichshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Shipping Packaging | 69 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Packaging | Shipping Packaging | <div class="ExternalClass5E8555ABA7424825B3CA2140B6830462"><p>Gifts and online orders come in all sorts of packaging – soft plastic, foam, air pockets and more. If you can't reuse the packaging, do you know how to recycle it?</p><p>Recycling rules vary by municipality. <br></p><p>Check with <a href="https://recycling.metrovancouver.org/" target="_blank">Metro Vancouver Recycles</a> to find out how to recycle shipping packaging where you live.<br></p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/packaging.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/packaging.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/packagingshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
| Reuse Christmas cards before recycling them | 70 | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/Reuse Christmas cards before recycling them | Reuse Christmas cards before recycling them | <div class="ExternalClassDDDCE121979144AE8D119F5B2C38A3A8"><p>Rather than throwing away or recycling your Christmas cards, reuse the decorative fronts as gift tags or upcycled decorations next year. The back panel can be cut into narrow strips to use as shopping lists or kept for crafts.</p>
<p>If you can’t reuse your cards, plain paper cards can go in your paper recycling. Cards with non-paper additives like plastic, glitter, sequins or fabric cannot be recycled and go in the garbage.
</p></div> | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/christmascards.jpg, Picture
http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/christmascards.jpg | http://www.metrovancouver.org/services/solid-waste/reduction-reuse/create-memories/CreateMemoriesImages/christmascardsshare.jpg, Thumb | GP0|#46d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743;L0|#046d680e0-cced-4e55-8c23-61b87e385743|After Christmas;GTSet|#a9923e58-f557-4ae8-9322-43b8e31fd089 | |
