Waste Reduction Ideas!

Gifts that Help Others Make a Difference

• cloth napkins with matching tablecloth
• cloth or string shopping bags
• compost bin
• gift certificates to resale shops
• library card
• lunch box/bag
• part dishes that are durable and reusable
• picnic basket cups, plates & utensils
• push mower
• rechargeable alkaline batteries/charger
• recycling bins
• refillable pen & pencil set
• reusable storage containers
• stationery made from recycled paper

Gifts that save water and energy:

bus passes
compact fluorescent light bulbs
insulated bed pads for waterbeds
pool & hot tub blankets
water heater blanket
water-saving faucets & showerheads

Living Gifts:

house plants
potted evergreens
seeds for spring planting
your time-for childcare, cooking a meal, etc.

More reduction ideas:

make edible ornaments & write holiday greetings on cookies
make origami ornaments from used wrapping paper
place gifts in decorative tins, baskets, or bags
reuse greeting card picture for a post card or gift tag
reuse wrapping paper, boxes, ribbons, & bows
use old jewelry to make new jewelry, art, & decorations

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