The holidays are a time of warmth, sparkle, and joy. The twinkling lights on our trees, homes, and streets fill our hearts with a festive spirit. But what happens when those holiday lights go out for good? Instead of tossing them in the trash, consider a greener way to say goodbye—by recycling them!
Why Recycle Holiday Lights?
Even though they may look like a tangled mess of wire and bulbs, holiday lights contain valuable materials like copper, glass, and plastic, all of which can be reused. Recycling your lights gives those valuable resources a second chance to shine while reducing the waste headed to the landfill.
How to Recycle Your Lights
Recycling your holiday lights is easier than you might think. Here are two simple suggestions to get you started. You can do this, and it will make a difference!
- Local Drop-Off Programs: Many local recycling centers and hardware stores offer holiday light recycling programs, especially during the holiday season. Check your local facilities or home improvement stores to see if they’re collecting old lights.
- Community Events: Look for community recycling events around the holidays. Some towns and cities host special collection drives where you can drop off your lights and other recyclables.
Make the Switch to LED
If you’re clearing out some of your older holiday lights, now might be a great time to switch to energy-efficient LED lights. LED holiday lights use less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer, saving you money on your energy bill and replacement costs.
Keep the Season Green
So, as you untangle those strands of lights this year, remember even when the lights go out, they can shine in a different form. Let’s make this holiday season a little greener, one string of lights at a time!
La Crosse, Wisconsin. area residents can find light recycling options here:
- Harter’s Quick Cleanup
- 2859 Larson Street, La Crosse, WI
- Phone: 608-782-2082
- La Crosse County Hazardous Materials
- 3202 Berlin Drive, La Crosse, WI
- Phone: 608-785-9999
- City of La Crosse
- Phone: 608-789-CITY
