We've just created a "Zero Waste Bainbridge" Facebook group so that we can learn from you and get your questions, ideas and information out to everyone. The more who join, the more robust the conversation.

We hope to see creative ideas, articles, local events and local services on all the "Re's": Reducing, Reusing, Refurbishing, Recycling, Repairing, and Repurposing. If you have questions, we'll try to answer or crowdsource for information.

Sign up now before we take down the original "Bainbridge Island Zero Waste" Facebook page.

We generate 25% more trash during the holidays than the rest of the year. To buck the trend, think about purchasing less and giving experiences rather than physical gifts. Don't buy new wrapping paper or bags -- be creative and use what you already have. In the food arena, plan on leftovers for subsequent meals or send portions home with guests.

Packaging

How to keep all that packaging out of the garbage? Check out our extensive list of places that reuse or recycle it under the "Packaging" section of the Holiday Waste page.

 Recycle or Not?

Perform the "scrunch test" on wrapping paper: Scrunch the paper into a ball. If it stays, recycle it. If it bounces back, don’t—it likely has a plastic coating. Definitely do NOT recycle wrapping paper with glitter, metallics, flocking, or a glossy finish.

Trees

Make a reservation by January 5 with the local scouts to pick up your decoration-free tree at the curb on January 6. The troops will haul it to Tilz, where it turns into compost in 90 days, ready to nurture soil to grow new trees!

Lights

Take broken or energy-hogging incandescent lightstrings (as in photo) to Ace Hardware by January 15 for recycling.

If you missed the November 29th Zero Waste meeting, never fear! We started it off with a recap of ZW's 2023 activities. This list details all our accomplishments.

Next, guest Heather Trim, the executive director of Zero Waste Washington, gave a very informative (as usual) presentation on past and future state waste reduction bills and why they are important. Watch it here, and follow the proposed legislation's progress in future ZW newsletters.

Speaking of newsletters, Zero Waste Washington's is always chockful of waste reduction pilots, programs, ideas, invitations and legislative news. See the latest issue here.

Whenever you are looking for a destination for something not accepted in your curbside bin, be sure to visit the

 "Guide to Reusing and/or Recycing Locally" on our website.

Newsletter editor: Diane Landry, BI Zero Waste (Volunteer) Director

Back issues are available here.

BI Zero Waste is an all-volunteer program of Sustainable Bainbridge.

Send feedback here.