The Art of Re-gifting (But Not the Way You Think)

After a major gift giving holiday such as Mother's Day, it's important to address the shopping bags, packaging, paper, bows and ribbons that make their way to the landfills after the gifts are unwrapped and put away. It' not just Mother's Day either. The Clean Air Council estimates that 1 million tons of waste per week makes its way to landfills between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day.

What can you do to eliminate your contribution to the gift waste after major holidays?

Re-gift, but not in the way you may think

In many instances gift wrap, gift bags, bows and ribbons are gently used and can easily be re-used rather than thrown in the garbage. You can approach this in one of two ways, depending on your comfort level.

1. Ask for reusable gift wrap back from your gift recipient. Tell the person you're giving the gift to that you are being eco-conscious and that you'd like the gift wrap and decorations back after they open the gift. Your friends and family are going to understand your desire to protect the environment and cut down on waste. If they don't understand then oh well!

2. Reuse the gift wrapping given to you. Whether it's a gift bag, bow or ribbon, neatly fold it up and put it away to be used on the next gift you give. Not only does this cut down on gift waste, but it saves you money on having to buy gift bags, tissue paper, bows, ribbons and more.

Do your part in reducing gift waste. It's a small step to save millions of tons of waste from winding up in the landfills every year.