Santa Cruz,California, Recycling Christmas

Santa Cruz County recycling of Christmas stuff

Christmas can be a delightful time for all, even for the environment. Granted we drive around a lot which isn't, but at least we have fun wrapping and unwrapping gifts and being responsible.

The deluge of boxes and paper can be recycled with some forethought. The wrapping paper is not good for woodstoves with catalytic converters, but is good for wrapping other smaller gifts. Unwrap carefully and you can re-use the paper and the bows or ribbons. The less of this stuff that ends up in the land fill means the county won't have to buy more real estate to expand the land fill and it lasts longer. For the old stuff that needs to go because you got a new computer or blender, there is Grey Bears which recycles and help seniors as well.

Boxes can be recycled by breaking them down and putting them in the recycle bin, or you can save them, and use them again for a birthday or other holiday gift. For those of you with kids, talk with their teachers and see if any of the stuff can be used in class room art projects. Remember those when we were in grade school?

The one over looked recycling of the day that can be very helpful is called re-gifting. That box modeling clay you will never you use would be a great re-gift for a 6-10 year old. That picture frame with the flamingo motif would be great for the 20 something girl who is on her own and likes a bit of whimsy. How about that real humdinger gift - a portrait of our venerable Mr. Bush, keep that one for a white elephant gift party. You're sure to be a hit. Everyone will be envious. Just remember to label who the gift came from so you give it out of your circle of friends or family. Now that is a great modern way to recycle and get what would be clutter out of your closet or attic!

Now what about that tree? Many municipalities and fire departments have drop off stations or pick ups. Soquel and Aptos and Scotts Valley fire departments all will take them. If you want to help a local organization, the Surfrider Foundation is having a Christmas tree pick up and clean up, for a donation with a unique service. The city of Santa Cruz and Watsonville are slated to pick up at curbside January 7-11, Capitola, Unincorporated Santa Cruz County and Scotts Valley January 2-22. Trees need to be cut up to no more than 3 foot lengths. These trees will be chipped and mulched. Call the organization or fire departments to confirm hours and exact locations. Recycle:it is a good thing to do for all concerned.