Holiday shopping, wrapping, and gifting oh my! So what can you do with the environment in mind?

There’s always the usual tips – like using reusable bags when you go out shopping but there’s also some more creative ones that we’ve come across lately.

For instance, did you know that most wrapping paper isn’t recyclable? And since most of us aren’t getting the “funnies” anymore to wrap things in, you could cut paper bags to fit and decorate it in your own personal style. Or look for places to pick up recyclable wrapping paper. Keep Toledo Lucas County Beautiful is selling 100% recyclable wrapping paper (just take those bows and ribbons off!) at various places.

One of those locations is 577 Foundation and in their Curiosity Shop you’ll also find gently-used books, yarns, art supplies, hand-made pottery and more. Reduce your impact on the environment by buying local, gently used items that are in great condition or sometimes just re-gifted, not open or used at all.

Local non-profits also often have merchandise or products (hint: Black Swamp Conservancy and ToledoGrows) that could be a special gift that reflects a cause near and dear to someone and supports the non-profit as well – double benefit! We especially like reusable water bottles, mugs, and cotton bags from local organizations!

And once the packages are open, don’t forget to recycle the cardboard and even the foam packaging. Watch for foam drop-off locations from KTLCB.