FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  December 19, 2003
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112

Celebrate this Holiday Season with  Environmental Spirit 

--DEP encourages reuse and recycling--

TALLAHASSEE- During December, Floridians produce more waste than any other month of the year and over 5 million tons of garbage is generated throughout the nation. Reducing, reusing and recycling can prevent pollution and protect the environment, lengthening the life of existing landfills. This holiday season, the Department of Environmental Protection is encouraging residents to conserve natural resources by recycling and reusing a variety of products.

• To recycle the more than 33 million trees harvested each year for Christmas, many communities offer tree collections during the first two weeks of the year. Trees may be chipped into mulch for gardens, parks, hiking trails, playground areas and landscaping. 
• Packaging materials make up almost one-third of the waste generated in the United States. To reduce waste this holiday season, consider reusing old gift bags, wrapping gifts in newspaper, or eliminating wrapping all together. Reusing gift wrapping, ribbons and packaging significantly reduces waste and saves consumer dollars.
• This year the U.S. Postal Service will handle over 20 billion pieces of holiday mail, including holiday cards and packaged gifts. Both cards and packaging can be recycled. Most recycling collection points accept used cardboard and foam packing peanuts can be recycled at many postal shipping stores. Charities also recycle holiday cards by using second-hand cards for craft projects.
• In the age of technology, electronic gadgets are at the top of the gift list. Whether a cell phone, stereo, television or compact disc player, donations to local charities can put second-hand electronics to good use.
• This season, consider purchasing rechargeable batteries to power new electronics for years to come. Used disposable batteries can be recycled at most collection points.