The holiday season is here, and as sustainability continues to become a priority for people across the country, now’s the perfect time to embrace some waste-reducing tips. From Thanksgiving to New Year’s, Americans throw away 25% more trash than any time of the year — amounting to 25 million tons of garbage. These holidays are filled with single-use items and materials like wrapping paper, all of which ends up in landfills. Christmas cards, holiday decorations and single-use dining sets are huge contributors to the waste during this time of year, and if sustainability is a goal of yours this holiday season, start with these tips for a more eco-conscious next few months.

Use what you have, secondhand shop for the rest.

Holiday decor is an enormous part of what makes the season so special. Lights, ornaments, trees, and other home accents help get us in the spirit, but buying new additions every year is costly for you and for the environment. There are a few small choices you can make that will go a long way in reducing your waste during the holiday season. A few include:

• Buy used decorations from thrift or consignment stores when you need to freshen up on accents.
• Search for high-quality LED lights that won’t consume as much energy and will last longer.
• Use natural elements like oranges, pine cones, and pine boughs to give your home biodegradable holiday cheer.

Another simple tip is to focus on using the items you already have. Get friends or family together (on video calls — it is 2020, after all) and make DIY holiday crafts together with affordable supplies. You can always upcycle everyday items like newspaper, cardboard and more for cute and creative crafts.

Get creative with gift giving!

Another not-so-sustainable part of the holiday season is gift giving. Between the waste of wrapping paper and ribbons and the environmental costs of buying gifts from distant retailers, the waste adds up quickly!

• Buying secondhand is a unique, sustainable, and affordable way to shop for your friends and family. You’ll be surprised at what you could find waiting for you on the shelves of a thrift or consignment store!
• Shopping locally is good for both your community’s economy and the environment. When you shop local, you don’t need products to be shipped across long distances. This helps cut down on carbon emissions.
• Use newspaper or paper bags as wrapping paper. Upcycling things around the house cuts back on waste and gives your gifts a unique look. You can also sub twine in for ribbons, then save the scraps for next year or another home project.
• If you’re on a budget, try making a gift at home. Put together a scrapbook or photo book, or make an upcycled craft. Your loved ones will appreciate the thoughtfulness and creativity!

Find the secondhand goods you need at Turn Style!

Get started on your sustainable season! Whether you’re looking for Christmas or winter-themed decorations or need new tableware, Turn Style has unique finds at each location, with new items coming in every day. You’re bound to find something amazing with every visit.