With the holiday season in full swing and wrapped gifts accumulating under trees, the City of Lethbridge is actively encouraging residents to be mindful of their waste. Municipal officials are reminding the public about the critical importance of proper recycling practices during this period of increased consumption and disposal.
Navigating the Festive Waste Stream
The message from the city is clear: not all holiday packaging and materials belong in the blue bin. As households generate more waste from gift wrap, cardboard boxes, and festive packaging, knowing what is acceptable for curbside recycling becomes paramount. Common holiday items like shiny or metallic wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows are typically not recyclable and should be placed in the garbage to avoid contaminating the recycling stream.
Officials emphasize that cardboard gift boxes, once emptied and flattened, are usually welcome in recycling bins. However, any cardboard soiled by food, like pizza boxes from holiday gatherings, should be composted or thrown away. The city's campaign, highlighted in a report by Karsen Marczuk, aims to reduce the volume of material sent to landfills by ensuring only appropriate items are recycled.
A Broader Commitment to Sustainability
This seasonal initiative is part of Lethbridge's ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and waste diversion. The holiday period, while joyful, often sees a significant spike in garbage production. By providing clear guidelines, the city hopes to empower residents to make eco-friendly choices.
The advice was formally issued on December 22, 2025, giving families timely information as they prepare for Christmas and New Year's celebrations. Proper waste sorting not only supports municipal recycling programs but also contributes to broader provincial and national environmental goals.
Practical Tips for a Greener Celebration
Beyond the basic recycling rules, residents are encouraged to consider waste reduction at the source. This can include:
- Using reusable gift bags, fabric wraps, or newspaper instead of conventional wrapping paper.
- Donating unwanted gifts or items in good condition to local charities.
- Composting food scraps from holiday feasts.
- Ensuring batteries from new electronics are disposed of at designated hazardous waste drop-off points, not in household bins.
By integrating these practices, Lethbridge households can significantly lessen their environmental footprint during the holidays. The city's proactive communication serves as a crucial reminder that sustainability and festive cheer can go hand in hand.
