Holiday Clean-Up: Recycling Christmas Trees and More in Williamson County
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and traditions, but it also creates waste. As you wrap up your festivities, consider taking a moment to recycle your holiday items responsibly. From Christmas trees to wrapping paper, many of the items used during the holidays can be recycled or repurposed! Here’s your guide to recycling Christmas materials in Williamson County.
Christmas Tree Recycling: Give Your Tree a Second Life
One of the most common holiday items to recycle is your fresh-cut Christmas tree. Williamson County makes it easy to dispose of your tree in an environmentally friendly way. After removing all decorations, nails, and tinsel, drop off the tree at any Williamson County Convenience Center, where they will be transformed into mulch. This helps reduce waste and creates beneficial compost for use in local parks and gardens.
In addition to the Convenience Centers, the cities of Brentwood, Fairview, and Franklin offer designated tree drop-off locations at local parks. For City of Franklin residents, trees can also be recycled through the Blue Bin curbside recycling program. Be sure to check for specific drop-off dates and locations, and remember that your tree can be put to good use long after the holidays are over.
Gift Wrapping Paper: Wrap It Right
After the gifts are unwrapped, what do you do with all that wrapping paper? In Williamson County, gift wrapping paper (excluding foil) can be recycled as mixed paper at any local Convenience Center. Be sure to remove any bows, tape, or stickers before recycling, as these items can contaminate the recycling process. Unfortunately, foil wrapping paper and glitter-coated paper are not recyclable.
Cardboard Boxes: Recycle and Reuse
Gift-giving often means plenty of cardboard boxes. Whether it’s a new toy, electronics, or home goods, packaging can pile up quickly. To recycle cardboard boxes in Williamson County, simply break them down and place them in the designated cardboard bin at any Convenience Center. Be sure to remove any foam, tissue, or tape before recycling to ensure the boxes can be processed efficiently.
For extra sustainability points, consider reusing boxes to store holiday decorations or repurposing them for future gift-wrapping.
Holiday Greeting Cards: Share the Love, Then Recycle
As the holiday cards begin to roll in, it’s nice to know that many of them can be recycled. You can recycle your greeting cards as mixed paper at any Williamson County Convenience Center. Before you drop them off, be sure the cards are free from non-paper embellishments such as foil, glitter, or ribbons, as these cannot be recycled.
Styrofoam: Find the Right Place for Disposal
While Styrofoam is not commonly recyclable through curbside programs, there are specific places in Williamson County where you can take it. Foam packing peanuts are reusable and can be dropped off at many UPS stores in the area. Be sure to call ahead and confirm that your local store will accept them.
For white block Styrofoam, EFP Corporation in Nashville is an option. They accept this material, but you’ll need to contact them directly for more information on drop-off.
Sustainability Tips for the Holidays Next Year
Recycling during the holidays is just one way to be more eco-conscious. Here are some additional tips for reducing waste and celebrating sustainably next year:
- Reuse gift wrapping: Save and reuse wrapping paper and tissue that isn’t torn, or opt for reusable gift bags.
- Get creative with wrapping: Try using non-traditional wrapping materials like newspapers, old scarves, or fabric for a unique and eco-friendly twist.
- Carry reusable bags: When holiday shopping, bring your reusable bags to avoid using plastic.
- Store leftovers in reusable containers: Skip the single-use plastic wrap and bags by opting for reusable storage containers.
- Use washable dishware: Choose reusable plates and cutlery for holiday meals instead of disposable options.
- Send digital greetings: Instead of sending paper cards, send e-cards or emails. If you do send paper cards, opt for those made from recycled materials.
- Give experiences: Rather than physical gifts, consider giving experiences like concert tickets or cooking classes to reduce material waste.
By incorporating some of these easy steps, you can reduce your environmental impact while still enjoying the festive season. Recycling Christmas trees, wrapping paper, and other holiday materials in Williamson County not only helps reduce waste but also makes your holiday celebrations a little greener!
