Rockhampton Regional Council is encouraging residents to have a waste-wise Christmas this festive season.
Waste and Recycling Councillor Shane Latcham said that Christmas can be a time of excess and residents can take small steps to help reduce waste and save money.
“By focusing on reducing waste at Christmas you can not only save money but reduce your stress and minimise your impact on the planet,” Cr Latcham said.
“We live in a great part of the world, and we want to make sure it stays that way now and for years to come.
“It’s easy for the rubbish to pile up over Christmas but there are plenty of ways we can be more waste-conscious this holiday season.
“When it comes to food, don’t let delicious holiday meals go to waste! Get creative with leftover ingredients and whip up some exciting new recipes.
“You could even give the gift of homemade treats! Bake up some homemade rocky road or rumballs and place in a reused glass jar.
“When it comes to wrapping gifts, ditch the traditional wrapping paper and opt for reusable alternatives like fabric, hand towels, or upcycled gift bags. If you’re going for wrapping paper, find one that you know can go into the recycling bin.
“Remember that tinsel, ribbon, and high gloss wrapping paper must be placed in your red bin, as they are not recyclable.”
Councillor Latcham said the festive season is also a great time to remind residents of the importance of recycling right.
“Each of us has an important role to play in minimising landfill waste and ensuring that only appropriate items are placed in the yellow lid bin,” Cr Latcham said.
“Each year, up to 109,000 tonnes of waste material is received, with approximately 49% of the materials being recovered.
“When it comes to decorations, try and reuse what you already have – most of the time you will find more than enough already stashed away in that handy box in the cupboard or shed from previous celebrations.
“You could even make your own bunting using old cards, wrapping paper or fabric as an affordable and unique way to decorate for Christmas Day.
“There are lots of things we can all do to minimise waste being sent to landfill and every bit can make a difference this festive season.”
For more helpful hints and tips on how to have a more waste-wise festive season, visit: https://www.rockhamptonregion.qld.gov.au/CommunityEvents/Environmental-Sustainability/Transitioning-towards-net-zero/Living-Sustainably/Green-gift-giving-and-festivities
To find out how to sort your waste, search Recycle Mate on Rockhampton Regional Council’s website on the Sort my Waste page or the Recycle Mate app is free to download from the Apple or Google Play store.
