Here are some tips for managing packaging waste after the holidays:

  • Save wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows in good condition for reuse next year.
  • Plastic bags, bubble wrap, air pillows, and packing peanuts are not recyclable by the city.
    • Most “pack and ship” stores accept clean, dry packing material for reuse.
    • Plastic bags, bubble wrap and air pillows are accepted in plastic bag recycling programs at retail stores such as Whole Foods and Shaws. If you can’t take it to the stores, please place it in the trash.
  • Metallic foil and holographic paper, tissue paper, ribbons, and bows all go in trash.
  • Large pieces of white polystyrene (Styrofoam) can be recycled at the Newton Resource Recovery Center (115 Rumford Ave., Auburndale).
  • String lights should never be put in the recycle bin–they can endanger workers at recycling centers. Bring them to the Resource Recovery Center and place them in the electronics recycling bin.
  • Natural Christmas trees  will be collected by the City of Newton from January 2 through January 12. Please set undecorated trees out on the curb on your regular trash collection day by 7am.
  • Christmas wreaths (natural or artificial) go in the trash. Consider donating artificial wreaths to Goodwill or Savers.