Gateway Community and Technical College's campus in Covington. Hailey Roden | LINK nky

The City of Covington is urging residents to adopt sustainable practices this holiday season to minimize waste and safeguard the environment.

Covington recently released a list of best practices and tips for residents to consider when engaging in general holiday activities such as gift wrapping, decorating the home or Christmas tree, and hosting holiday parties.

Green Gift Wrapping Tips 

  • Reuse newspaper and paper bags instead of wrapping paper; remove tape before recycling. 
  • Wrap difficult items in used scarves, handkerchiefs, or tea towels. 
  • For edible gifts, use reusable containers like glass bottles or tins to reduce single-use packaging. 

Shop Smart, Shop Sustainable 

  • Bring reusable bags whenever shopping, not just at the grocery store. 
  • Choose products with recycled content to support recycling efforts. 
  • Send e-cards, create your own, or buy recycled greeting cards. 

Eco-Friendly Gatherings 

  • Use real dishes and cutlery instead of disposable plastic, foam, or paper options. 
  • Replace paper tablecloths and napkins with washable cloth versions. 
  • Make recycling simple by placing clearly labeled recycling bins next to trash bins.  

Embrace Nature’s Charm with Sustainable Holiday Décor 

  • Create natural decorations with outdoor items like pinecones and evergreen branches. 
  • Consider decorating a live potted Christmas tree and planting it in your yard–if space permits–after the holiday season. 
  • If you buy a cut tree, recycle it after the holidays. Check local resources for drop-off or recycling sites. 

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