Repurposing

It’s a simple concept that can make a big difference. Instead of buying something new, use something you already have when packaging gifts this season.

“I’m a big fan of repurposing,” Smith says. “My go-to when I’m wrapping (is) to look at what I have around and get creative with ways to gussy it up a little bit. You can take an old shoe box and make it into a gift box.”

Other examples include reusing previously read newspapers as wrapping paper, tying it with old twine instead of new ribbon and turning paper scraps into bows and other decorations.

“That way you’re not actually using any new materials,” Smith says. “You’re up-cycling.”

Nature’s beauty

There’s also a groovy alternative to bows, ribbons and paper adornments, and it’s right outside your door.

“Got out into nature, wherever you are, and take a sprig of a plant or an evergreen or an interesting seed pod,” Smith recommends. “I like to use those as gift toppers, rather than the acrylic bows or big plastic hay ribbons,” which are not bio-degradable.

“Even a stick could be interesting — you could paint it. Succulent clippings are super easy and always look great. In the case of succulents, the cool thing is that people can just stick it in some dirt or water, and it will propagate itself. “So … you’ve got a whole ‘nother plant out of that.”

Biodegradable ribbon

Ribbons sure look nice on packages. But they can also be tough on the environment.

“Most ribbon is … sourced in Asia,” says Eric Crawford, owner of Cream City Ribbon. The Milwaukee company’s unwoven fabric ribbons are made from U.S. grown cotton yarn, and they’re biodegradable. You can simply toss them into the compost bin when you’re done with them. Or they can be re-used for things like tying up plants in the garden.

For more information, visit creamcityribbon.com.

Shape the future

The choices we make today have a big impact on tomorrow. Consumers vote with their dollars, which tell companies what products to manufacture in the years to come. Consider that cause-effect principle the next time you select gift wrap. It’s not just about 2017 — it’s about expanding the marketplace for ecofriendly packaging in the future.

“If people keep buying wrapping paper with tons of foil in it, then that’s what is going to be created every year,” Jeans says. “The best thing that you can possibly do is buy wrapping paper that doesn’t have foil in it, doesn’t have glitter and is recyclable. Then that’s what is going to be created next year and the year after that and the year after that.”