Helga invites you to Un-Trash the Holidays

Americans create about 25% more trash during the holidays. So while you make your tree brighter, make your trash lighter! Un-Trashing our planet is a gift we give each other.
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No wrapping paper, no problem.

Use pillowcases. It's okay to ask for them back. Good friends don't mind.

Use dish towels or cloth napkins. If you want them back, ask or make the towel/napkin part of the gift.

Check your recycle bin for clever options such as magazines, flyers, newspaper or paper towel rolls.
 

If you use traditional wrapping paper, check to see if it is recyclable in your area. In Western Massachusetts, wrapping paper (except for metallic, foil, glitter types) is recyclable as well as tissue paper, lottery tickets, greeting cards (if made of paper.) Western Mass residents go to Springfieldmrf.org for more information.

About 40 billion plastic utensils are used in the US every year. Use the real stuff. If your host does not have enough silverware for everyone, loan your set for the party. Since the holidays are about love, love the fact that by using the real stuff, you are no longer sending plastic ware to the landfill for it to remain buried for centuries or to an incincerator where it  burns and spews dioxin, a potent carcinogen.