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