Reuse at Christmas

Christmas trees and decorations

An artificial Christmas tree can be your festive friend for years. Read the great debate between real versus artificial trees. http://www.science20.com/science_motherhood/great_debate_real_vs_artificial_christmas_trees
Sturdy and durable decorations which are not easily broken can be brought out year after year. http://www.promotionalcodes.org.uk/20109/20-tips-for-saving-money-on-christmas-decorations/
Like clothes classic decorations are less likely to date and will look elegant for many Christmases to come. http://www.suite101.com/reference/christmas_decorating_ideas
A decoration does not need to be just for Christmas - some like ribbons, angels and candles can be used throughout the year. http://www.videojug.com/webvideo/how-to-reuse-old-christmas-ornaments

Christmas Wrapping

Gift bags, unlike wrapping paper can be reused many times over http://www.recyclethis.co.uk/20090622/how-can-i-reuse-or-recycle-old-gift-bags
Be creative and make your wrapping a talking point with old newspaper, magazines or even scrap wallpaper. http://www.westlondonwaste.gov.uk/wrapping-paper/
Old cord, wool, string and old ribbons are great for tying your gifts and presents http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art25408.asp
Old Christmas cards can make great gift cards, book marks or postcards and can also make it on to next year’s dinner table as place settings for guests at Christmas lunch. http://www.suite101.com/content/green-christmas-gift-wrap-is-recyclable-or-reusable-a315442

Christmas gifts

Long life rechargeable batteries will keep those new toys going longer and save you money in the long run. http://ezinearticles.com/?Dont-Forget-the-Rechargeable-Batteries-This-Christmas&id=5336669
An unwanted gift to you may not have been bought from someone else’s wish list. If you do get unwanted Christmas gifts why not donate these to your local charity or hospital. For lists of charities see:-http://www.christmasnetwork.co.uk/charities.aspx or log ontohttp://www.allthingschristmas.com/christmas-charity.html

Christmas food

Love Food Hate Waste NI has over 170 recipes using typical leftovers to use up that extra turkey or give you some ideas on how to stop those extra sprouts ending up in the bin! Find out more on Love Food Hate Waste NI