How to Responsibly Dispose of Holiday Waste in DC

Now that holiday excitement is beginning to turn into “new year, new me” energy, an important question remains: What should you do with all that torn-up wrapping paper? And what about the Christmas tree that’s been dropping pine needles all over your rug? Here are some tips for recycling and responsibly disposing of holiday waste.

Is Gift Wrapping Recyclable?

The short answer: probably not. Most of the gift wrapping paper on the market is non-recyclable. Putting it in the recycling bin can contaminate the rest of the load, meaning all the contents will go to the landfill. The same goes for items like ribbons, holiday cards, and anything that glitters. But Zero Waste DC has a handy guide to what wrapping is and isn't recyclable here.

How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree

🎄 Natural trees: In D.C., Christmas tree collection for DPW-serviced household begins Jan. 2 and goes through Feb. 28. Place your trees curbside or in the tree box closest to your home and DPW will pick it up. Most recycled trees are turned into wood chips, mulch, or compost, so be sure to prep your tree for recycling by removing any decor, lights, and non-organic items. You can also get creative and repurpose your tree for other home projects.

You can also drop off your tree Monday through Friday until Feb. 28 at the below locations

• Bryant Street Sweep Shop (201 Bryant Street NW)
• Guy Mason Recreation Center (3600 Calvert St NW)
• DPW Salt Storage Facility (2700 South Capital St., SE)

🎄 Artificial trees: If the tree is in decent condition and you’re just ready for a new one, consider donating it or posting it on your neighborhood listserv. Otherwise, you can contact D.C.'s normal bulk trash collection service for a pickup.

What to Do with Old Decorations

If you have unusable decorations or holiday lights, don't throw them in the recycle bin, instead drop them off at the Fort Totten Transfer Station. Some Home Depot and Ace Hardware locations will take your faulty holiday lights and recycle them for you.

Are your decorations in good working order? Give them a new life by donating them to a local organization, a thrift store, or hardware store.

I’ll leave you with one last tip for the overachievers out there: take notes on how to reduce your holiday waste next year.