You can recycle a lot of your holiday packaging if you just follow a few simple rules, according to the Cowichan Valley Regional District.
Paper gift wrap, paper gift bags, shipping boxes, and greeting cards go with mixed paper, eggnog cartons, paper cups, cookie tins, plastic trays and tops and aluminum foil and foil trays go with containers. However there are a few things you can’t recycle at the CVRD.
Foil wrap, ribbons and bows, and padded envelopes are not compatible with recycling efforts.
Items like Christmas lights, toys, batteries, and old electronics can still find a home at a recycling centre or even thrift shop but need a bit more effort on the part of the homeowner.
Foam packaging and Styrofoam and plastic bags, often found in profusion after Christmas, can be recycled, but only at the depot.