Once you've put away your Christmas decorations and come out of holiday mode, don't forget to recycle them. From Christmas trees to the lights that decorate them, we've got some tips on where to put them instead of landfill.
Christmas lights
While those tangled and burnt strands of Christmas lights may seem easy to toss in the trash, don't rush into action. There are places where you can recycle it! Scrap metal and electronics recycling programs can accommodate them.
Here are some places to buy wreaths in Lenawee County:
R&M Recycling, 2675 Treat St., Adrian
Goodwill Recycling, 1357 Section St., Adrian
OmniSource, 815 Treat St., Adrian
Note. Please contact this company for opening hours and any other information.
If you prefer to recycle your old lights, visit holidayleds.com/free-light-recycling. Be sure to fill out the online form as well, as once delivery is confirmed, you will be sent a coupon for the new lights.
Fake Christmas tree
If it's time to say goodbye to the artificial plant that has graced your living room for a while, the first thing to think about before it ends up in the trash is whether it will be reused. Unfortunately, most artificial trees are not accepted by most recycling centers because they are made of PVC and require a special program. Therefore, it is important that these branches find a place to be used and do not end up in the garbage.
Most local thrift stores accept donations of used artificial trees and decorations. You can also reach out to family or friends who want to exchange their Christmas decorations for a new (for them) tree next year.
Another way to reuse them is to cut the branches for crafts and decorations. Make a wreath or faux wreath out of the scraps or separate them to use as centerpieces.
Real Christmas tree
Before you do anything to get rid of your real tree, be sure to remove all decorations and decorations from it. Decorative leftovers can make things difficult for those who handle them.
Most municipalities and waste removal companies in the area have a Christmas tree collection program, so be sure to contact them for more information if you would like to drop one off.
Another option is to use old trees for new purposes in your garden. In spring, mulch the soil to prevent weeds. If you have a compost pile, you can put it on your tree! However, it is recommended to remove the needles as this may slow down the decomposition process.
If you or someone you know has a wooded area on your property, consider placing a tree there to serve as a temporary refuge for wildlife while it rots.
other decorations
The key to keeping ornaments and decorations out of landfills this year is to reuse them. Most are made from non-recyclable materials, but that doesn't mean they should go straight into the trash. Broken ornaments can be used in craft works such as mosaics. Ornaments and wreaths can be saved for similar projects next year or as a gift ribbon option.
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Stopping to think about whether something can be reused or recycled before throwing it in the bin can go a long way towards reducing the amount we throw into landfill during our annual holidays.
For more information on recycling, visit facebook.com/LenaweeRecycle.
— Julie Maurer is the solids and waste management program coordinator for the Lenawee County Health Department. She can be reached at 517-264-5263 or julie.maurer@lenawee.mi.us.
This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: Julie Mauer: How to cut down your tree and get rid of Christmas decorations
