IDEM has recycling tips for everything from treetops to laptops

What does a computer have in common with a Christmas tree? Both can be recycled, along with many items Hoosiers won’t keep when the holiday season is through.

“Just because we don’t need something anymore doesn’t mean it has to go into the trash,” said Thomas W. Easterly, commissioner for the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM). “It’s better for the environment, and good from a conservation standpoint to donate good used items, and recycle what we can.”

During the holiday season, household waste can increase as much as 25 percent. Hoosiers can make a positive difference through their efforts to recycle aluminum and steel cans, glass and plastic containers, paper and electronics. Donating or recycling electronics helps to prevent the release of hazardous substances, including lead, cadmium and chromium, commonly found in their components. Manufacturers can conserve energy and raw materials by reusing recycled aluminum, steel, glass, plastic, paper and electronic components in making new products.

Christmas trees don’t need to go to the curb for trash pickup when decorations come down. Public and private composting facilities can chip trees for mulch. Trees also can be used in conservation projects, such as stabilizing the banks of streams and ponds or creating underwater habitats. Give a gift to the environment this year by remembering these tips:

* Recycle or donate electronics, including televisions, computers, cell phones, DVD players and MP3 players;

* Recycle plastic and paper gift packaging;

* Reuse gift bags for next year’s gifts;

* Donate good used toys and clothing items; * Recycle batteries;

* Re-gift unwanted presents;

* Recycle Christmas trees. Check with your local solid waste management district or conservation district for collection and drop-off information;

* Use washable plates, napkins and utensils for holiday parties and gatherings;

* Reuse ribbons, bows, wrapping paper and holiday cards;

* Follow energy conservation tips for holiday lights; and,

* Look for the recycling symbol when shopping.

For more information about what items can be donated and recycled, and to find out about collection programs in your community, visit IDEM’s holiday recycling Web page at http://www.idem.IN.gov/holidays .