As we approach the holiday season, some of us are beginning to dread the amount of garbage that will be produced and trying to find creative ways to reduce waste. From the huge boxes on our porches to the mounds of wrapping paper that will be hitting our recycling bins, it seems that every year, we’re seeing more and more of it. Here are a few simple tips that can help make a big difference in reducing waste this season.

Shop Smart

If you’re shopping in stores, don’t forget to bring your own reusable bags. Keep a stack in your car and next to your front door so that they stay top of mind.

If you’re shopping online, look for companies that use and ship in minimal packaging. You can always contact them to check on how items are shipped and request that they leave out any unnecessary packaging such as packing peanuts, bubble wrap and styrofoam. With Amazon for example, always choose to ship your items together and opt for frustration-free packaging when the options are available.

DIY Gift Wrapping

Gift wrapping consumes a ton of paper and most of it is unfortunately not recyclable. Consider wrapping gifts with recycled paper, old magazines or paper bags. You can even use materials from old curtains or table cloths and reuse them year after year. Skip the plastic ribbons and use biodegradable raffia, cinnamon sticks, herbs or reusable cloth ribbons instead.

Limit Food Waste

Food waste is a huge issue around the holidays. To avoid wasting food (and money), plan your menu in advance and figure out exactly how much food you need. If you do end up cooking more than needed, make sure to put the leftovers away and store them safely. You can get creative with the leftovers and incorporate them into omelettes, paellas, and stews - or consider donating them to soup kitchens and shelters.

Say No to Single-Use Foodware

While it’s tempting to buy decorated single-use plastic or paper plates to avoid washing dishes, it’s best to stick to your durable plates and utensils. To make clean up easier, make sure to empty the dishwasher before your event. Consider asking your guests to place their own plates and utensils in the dishwasher or ask for a friend’s help after the event. To limit everyone to a single glass, write each person’s name on it so everyone can easily identify their own without reaching for a second.

Rethink Gift Giving

Give gifts that people need and if you feel the person you’re shopping for truly has everything they need - or can easily get it - consider an experience gift instead, such as a dinner date, tickets to see a live performance, a day at an amusement park or tickets to see a comedy show. Sometimes one of the best gifts you can give someone is your time and the memories you create together will last a lifetime.

While it can be overwhelming to take all these things into consideration, remember that small steps make a huge difference. If you save one tree or reduce your waste by one garbage bag, you’re contributing to less waste this season!