Dreaming of a Green Christmas

The holidays see a big increase in trash generation and removal. Gift wrap, boxes, cards, and envelopes fill dumpsters and landfills. Recycling is increasing, but one thing that people might not know is recyclable is their Christmas tree. There are many recycling facilities around the country that also recycle Christmas trees in addition to glass, paper, and plastic. Some communities that have curbside recycling will allow residents to put their trees out with the rest of their recyclables. But some cities and counties require residents to haul their own trees to the recycling facilities. Not everyone has a truck, and for many, it's easier to just put their trees out with the trash than it is to take their trees to be recycled. That's where you come in. If your organization can rent a large pickup or flatbed truck, you can offer to pick up those discarded Christmas trees and haul them to the recycling facility for a fee. Be sure that your volunteers have gloves to handle the trees, and also have some twine or bungee cord on hand to secure the trees to the truck. Before you do anything, contact your local recycling facility to make sure they recycle trees, and to arrange for volume drop-off. You can help keep trees out of the landfill and raise money for your organization at the same time!
Find more holiday fundraising ideas here.