Now that that holiday excitement is beginning to turn into “new year, new me” energy, an important question remains: What should you do with all that torn up wrapping paper? And what about the Christmas tree that’s been dropping pine needles all over your rug? Here are some tips for recycling and responsibly disposing of holiday waste.

Is Gift Wrapping Recyclable?

The short answer: Probably not. Most of the gift wrapping paper on the market is non-recyclable. Putting it in the recycling bin can contaminate the rest of the load, meaning that all the contents will go to the landfill. The same goes for items like ribbons, holiday cards, and anything that glitters.

How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree

🎄 Natural trees: The City of Madison collects trees and turns them into mulch. There are two rounds of collection, one starting on Jan. 6 and the other starting on Jan. 21. Place the tree on the terrace or right-of-way area, and make sure all tree bags, ornaments, lights, and other non-organic items are removed.

The tree also has to be free of snow and ice, so you might have to dig them out if it snows. You could also bring the tree to one of the city’s drop-off sites. Wreaths, boughs, and evergreen ropes go in the trash. You can also get creative and repurpose your tree for other home projects.

🎄 Artificial trees: If the tree is in decent condition, and you’re just ready for a new one, consider donating it to a local organization or charity. The Christmas Tree Project also accepts tree and decoration donations to distribute to families in need around the world.

What to Do with Old Decorations

If you have unusable decorations or holiday lights, recycle them at one of the city’s drop-off locations. Some Home Depot and Ace Hardware locations will take your faulty holiday lights and recycle them for you.

Are your decorations in good working order? Give them a new life by donating them to a local organization, a thrift store, or hardware store.

I’ll leave you with one last tip for the overachievers out there: take notes on how to reduce your holiday waste next year.

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🎻 Cork ‘n Bottle String Band at The Harmony Bar and Grill

🎚️ GLOBAL GROOVES with DJ VPS at Lola's Hi/Lo Lounge

🧛 Goth AF: Nightmare After Christmas at Crucible

🎣 GUYS ON ICE at The Barrymore Theatre

😆 JON DORE at Comedy on State

🎤Robert J at Madison Taproom at Minocqua Brewing Company Madison Tap Room

🎭 Scooby-Doo! And a Panto at Bartell Theatre

📰 Extra! Extra! We here at City Cast Madison hope you all have a great holiday. The Madison MInutes newsletter will be officially on vacation until Thursday, Jan. 2, although you will receive a couple of surprises in your inbox over the holidays. Take care and see you next year! 📅