As you entertain guests and exchange gifts during the holiday, a lot of added waste tends to build up in—and around your home. This season, try to think of new ways to reuse some of that waste.

Here’s one fun idea that may not save the landfill, but could be more impactful than you think.

tip: collect Christmas cards that no one wants to save, and cut them in half.  The half that contains the handwritten note can be recycled. The other half can be cut up evenly to make holiday gift tags for next year.

By planning ahead, you’ll save yourself time and money, and you’ll be cutting down on unnecessary waste.

Happy Holidays!

Our company has long been committed to green business practices, and in recognition of our efforts, Solutions (as part of Norm Thompson Outfitters) received an award for Excellence in Waste Prevention, Recycling and Environmental Purchasing on Earth Day 2010. We now join an elite group of Portland-area businesses who have been recognized for their progressive recycling efforts.

In celebration of Earth Day’s 40th anniversary, our company’s “Green Team” (made up of employee volunteers) put together an informational event designed to help our staff better understand what and where to recycle while at work and at home. A full layout of the cleaning products used in our building and of what objects can and can’t be recycled was displayed for employees to see.

In addition to enjoying an array of eco-friendly refreshments, each employee received a cloth shopping bag containing a live, Pacific Crabapple sapling.