Cut down on trash during holidays

Americans throw away 25 percent more trash — an extra 25 million tons — between Thanksgiving and New Year's than they do at any other time of the year.

• Choose a living Christmas tree. When the holidays are over, plant it in your yard or donate it to a local school. Another option is to purchase an artificial tree that can be used each year.

• Give movie tickets, concert tickets, gift certificates or make a donation to a local charity in someone's name.

• Be creative when wrapping gifts. Look around the house for unusual wrapping materials. Old baskets, children's artwork and scrap fabric work well and can be reused on other occasions. Consider hiding children's presents around the house and leaving clues rather than wrapping the gifts.

• Buy rechargeable batteries for children's toys and home electronics. Forty percent of annual battery sales occur during the holiday period. Consider giving batteries and a recharger as part of the gift.

• Be a smart shopper. To avoid trips to the store, begin your shopping on the phone or Internet, then organize shopping trips so that driving time is reduced. Bring your own shopping bag or use one large bag for all purchases.

• When sending gifts by mail, package them with reused boxes, bubble wrap or peanuts. Wrap boxes in brown paper grocery bags for mailing.

• Use dishes and glassware for parties rather than buying disposable paper goods. If your party is larger than your dish and glassware supply, try renting these items.

• Cut the cards. Review and trim your holiday card list. Consider those on your list who might prefer an electronic card instead. Save the cards you receive and use them as gift tags, decorations and wrapping material.

• Consider giving homemade baked goods or crafts as gifts. Get the kids involved in making holiday cards, decorations and ornaments instead of buying them.

For more information, go to www.extension.usu.edu/cooperative.