Want to sustainably rid yourself of waste that accumulates in the home and office after gifts, parties, and the holiday season?  For our American audience:

Any UPS Store will accept clean boxes, bubble wrap, styrofoam peanuts, etc. Locations: go here

Most grocery stores (Safeway, Whole Foods, etc.) recycle thin-film plastic bags, including

My family was ahead of the eco-friendly trend when it came to wrapping paper. In the 80s, we wrapped the lids and bottoms of boxes separately with our favorite paper, allowing us to re-use year after year with just a fresh ribbon (and sometimes even a reused one!) In the 90s, we made or purchased fabric gift bags with drawstring ribbons that allow for easy access. Not only are these ideas simple and reduce wrapping waste and stress, but they have also become beloved holiday memories themselves: who will receive the Snoopy box or the snowman bag this year? You can even hold a craft-party with friends and family to make your boxes and bags out of scraps from your other projects!

Here's another great holiday idea that holds up year-round: