Deck the Halls with Recycling Bins: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Decor
When it comes to decking the halls for the holiday season, it can be easy to get swept up in the excitement and forget about the environmental impact of our decorations. However, making eco-friendly decor choices doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive! In fact, using recycling bins can be a creative and resourceful way to decorate this holiday season. Here is your guide to decorating with recycling bins for a festive and sustainable home.
1. Festive Wreaths
Wreaths are a staple of holiday decor. Instead of buying a new one each year, why not make your own from the recycling bin? With just a couple of supplies and a little creativity, you can make a beautiful and unique wreath that will wow all your holiday guests. Consider using things like cardboard, paper, or even old Christmas cards to create your wreath. You can also add natural elements like pinecones or holly to give it a festive touch.
2. Upcycled Tree Decorations
Cutting down trees to use as decoration might be a common practice, but it isn’t very sustainable. To reduce waste, try making your own tree decorations instead! From old CDs to empty soda cans, there are a ton of ways you can upcycle everyday items into stunning ornaments that are perfect for your tree. Get creative and experiment with different materials and colors to make your tree look unique and stand out.
3. DIY Gift Wrapping
Wrapping presents is another holiday tradition that can be environmentally damaging. Instead of using traditional wrapping paper, take a look in your recycling bin to find materials that you can use to wrap gifts. Old newspapers, magazine pages, and even grocery bags can make stylish and thoughtful wrapping paper that shows off your eco-friendly spirit. You can also use twine or yarn instead of ribbon to avoid adding more waste.
4. Creative Centerpieces
When it comes to creating holiday centerpieces, the possibilities are endless. Instead of buying new decorations that will only be used for a few weeks, get creative and use your recycling bin as your inspiration. For example, you can use empty glass jars or bottles to create a festive display filled with ornaments or candles. Or, gather some pinecones and twigs to create a rustic and natural-looking centerpiece. Use your imagination and think about what you already have on hand that can be repurposed.
5. Sustainable Lighting
Last but not least, lighting can add warmth and festivity to any home during the holiday season. But instead of using traditional lights that waste energy and contribute to climate change, opt for eco-friendly lighting options. LED lights are a great alternative that use significantly less energy and last longer. You can also use candles and traditional light bulbs, but make sure to turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed to conserve energy.
Conclusion:
Decorating for the holiday season should be fun and exciting, but it’s important to remember the impact our choices have on the environment. By using recycling bins and repurposing everyday items, you can make beautiful and sustainable decorations that will make your home feel festive and eco-friendly. From festive wreaths to upcycled decorations, get creative and start your own recycling bin holiday tradition this year!
