Reduce, Reuse And Recycle Waste This Holiday Season

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) held a media briefing on Dec. 5 to offer tips to help families save money, reduce waste and keep recycling and trash workers safe during upcoming holidays.

“We know recycling can be confusing,” said Jennifer Semrau, DNR waste reduction and diversion coordinator. “But there are some basic tips people can use to make tackling holiday waste less overwhelming. Knowing the right thing to do with things like batteries and light strings can prevent damage to recycling facilities and keep workers safe.”

Materials That Should NOT Go In Recycling Bins

• Holiday light strings, cords and other “tanglers”
• Plastic bags, plastic film and wrap
• Batteries and electronics
• Tissue paper
• Photo cards and cards that play music, light up or have glitter or ribbons

Save Money With Food Waste Reduction Tips

• Understand date labels and when food items are actually unsafe
• Shop with a plan and prepare for gatherings
• Store food to extend its life
• Freeze before you toss

Read the full news release.

In addition, on Dec. 9, Jennifer Semrau and Ruth O’Donnell, DNR organics waste management specialist, were guests on Wisconsin Public Radio’s “The Larry Meiller Show” discussing reducing holiday waste.

Listen to the program.

Photo: Light strings and cords collected from a materials recovery facility. / Photo Credit: Outagamie County Solid Waste