LENAWEE CO. — As the holiday season approaches, sustainability advocates are encouraging residents to reduce plastic waste with simple, practical changes at home.
Experts note that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, Americans generate about 25% more waste than usual, much of it from plastic packaging, decorations, disposable dinnerware and gift wrap. Much of that plastic does not break down and can persist in the environment for decades.
Suggestions include decorating with secondhand items, natural materials like evergreen branches and pinecones, or reused décor from previous years instead of buying new plastic-based decorations. For gift-giving, experiences, durable items and thrifted or handmade gifts are recommended as alternatives to heavily packaged products.
Low-waste wrapping options include reusable cloth wraps, paper, baskets or tins. Hosts are also encouraged to use real plates, cups and fabric napkins rather than disposable tableware, and to plan ahead for leftovers using reusable containers.
Advocates say the goal is not perfection, but making small choices that reduce waste while keeping holiday traditions meaningful and affordable.