Wrap it up: Eco-friendly wrapping paper alternatives

Happy Holidays from the Marion Resourcers Movement!

While we love celebrating all the holidays this time of year, they can lead to generating more waste. Even something as simple as wrapping a present can have increased environmental impacts. According to the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), Americans discard an estimated 38,000 miles of ribbon each year, enough to wrap around the planet with some left over to tie a bow. Not to mention, all wrapping paper that is shiny, slick, or glittery is not recyclable.

Don't get us wrong, there's nothing that beats the excitement that comes from unwrapping something new that you know you'll love. To keep that excitement without the waste, we've put together some wrapping paper alternatives to help you reduce waste.

Recyclable Options

Swap out wrapping paper for a recyclable option. Kraft paper is a great choice, as it is a recycled material that can recycled again once it's ripped off the present. Keep it clean and simple, or be creative and decorate your presents prior to gifting. Stamps, stickers, collage or even your kids' scribbles can add an artistic touch to the gift.

If you have other papers around the house, like maps, newspapers, comics, sheet music, or scratch papers, turn them into wrapping paper this season.

Instead of purchasing boxes for clothing or small items, reuse supplies that you already have. Cereal boxes make great alternatives to clothing boxes, and jars can hold smaller items or baked goods.

Fabric Wrapping

If you want to transition from paper to something more reusable - try fabric wrapping this year! You can use fabric squares for the Japanese Furoshiki folding methods, or just tie it up in knot for the recipient.

 Sweaters (especially the ugly ones) also work great to wrap up presents and can be reused year after year. Hit up local thrift stores for seasonal sweaters, or go through your collection for ones you no longer wear.

Befriend the Bag

Tired of wrapping presents in general? Switch to bags this year. You can use festive ones for the seasons, or use one of the many reusable totes you've probably collected over the years. You can use them again and again without needing to throw them out.

Do you have any waste reduction wrapping tips? Let us know in the comments!