Most wrapping paper can't be recycled. Here's what conscientious gift-givers are doing instead.
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Dear Green American,
It’s no secret that the “most wonderful time of the year” leaves behind massive piles of trash. One of the biggest plastic culprits of the holiday season isn’t even a gift…it’s what the gift comes in.
Most wrapping paper, adorned with metallics and glitter, is made of a paper-plastic composite and cannot be recycled. Tissue paper similarly cannot be recycled; some can be composted, but due to its lack of nutritional value, it often winds up in the landfill. Gift bags are slightly better, despite being made up of plastic materials, because they can be reused.
If absolutely no plastic is the goal, here are some plastic-free gift-wrapping options:
A gift bag and present all in one: The handwoven cotton beach tote from Altiplano ([link removed]) is a beautiful gift in and of itself, but put a couple extra gifts in it and it can be a gift bag all on its own, too! The small business has many handwoven bags from artisans in Guatemala that can be used for all sorts of gifts and bags—a jewelry holder, a cosmetics bag with some new non-toxic makeup, whatever you can dream of.
Cloth gift bags: Seeds to Sew International offers colorful, reusable gift bags ([link removed]) ([link removed])of varying sizes made from upcycled fabric scraps and crafted by artisans in Kenya.
Unique wrapping and accessories: Happily, there are more sustainable options for wrapping paper and accessories than ever before. ([link removed]*1pupt3o*_gcl_au*ODQ5Njc0MzA5LjE3NjQ2MDk1MzE.*_ga*MTgyMDM3ODg3Ny4xNzMzMzQ1MjM5*_ga_HTNVK3BTWB*czE3NjQ4Njk5OTMkbzM3NCRnMSR0MTc2NDg3MDE1MyRqNjAkbDAkaDA.#!biz/id/673e67c254150f20d701d653)EcoPartyTime offers a variety of green packaging options ([link removed]), ([link removed]*1pupt3o*_gcl_au*ODQ5Njc0MzA5LjE3NjQ2MDk1MzE.*_ga*MTgyMDM3ODg3Ny4xNzMzMzQ1MjM5*_ga_HTNVK3BTWB*czE3NjQ4Njk5OTMkbzM3NCRnMSR0MTc2NDg3MDE1MyRqNjAkbDAkaDA.#!biz/id/673e67c254150f20d701d653) like biodegradable cotton twine, organic woven boxes, or linen drawstring pouches with decorative trims.
Sustainable paper: Whether recycled or made from fibers like hemp, there are all sorts of papers these days that can be used as gift wrap. Plus, you can get creative and draw or write a letter to make it unique and heartfelt.
Decorate boxes: Items like electronics or edible treats often come in well-made, sturdy boxes, so instead of throwing them away, redecorate them with sustainable paper and wrapping accessories to make your own unique gift boxes.
Repurpose glass jars and bottles: Homemade gifts of spice mixes, air fresheners, infused cooking oils, or simple syrups can be packaged in emptied glass jars and decorative bottles. Just give them a thorough clean, pretty them up with some sustainably made accessories like labels and ribbons, and voilà!
This holiday season, let your gift wrapping be part of the gift itself: a commitment to a more sustainable future that extends far beyond the moment of unwrapping.
Learn more about plastics and actions you can take in our latest Green American magazine » ([link removed])
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Anya Crittenton
Editorial & Green Business Network Communications Associate
Green America
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