Christmas tree drop-off locations, other holiday environmental tips

  • Published
  • By Elvis Lane
  • 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  The holiday season is a time to celebrate traditions with family and friends, but it's also an excellent opportunity to give back to our planet.

The 23rd Civil Engineer Squadron asset management flight would like to remind Team Moody of some important environmental practices during this holiday season, including where to recycle Christmas trees.

Approximately 33 million Christmas trees are sold in North America during the holidays each year. If you haven't bought a tree you can plant, there are tree drop-off sites located in the local area where the trees will be turned into mulch or chippings for other purposes.

To drop off a tree, visit these collection points in Valdosta, Ga.:
- Home Depot at 1825 Norman Drive
- Walmart at 3274 Inner Perimeter Road
- Mathis City Auditorium at 2300 N. Ashley St.
- Lowndes County Recycling Center at 345 Gil Harbin Blvd. (Lowndes County solid waste permit holders only)
- Valdosta YMCA at 2424 Gornto Road

Individuals may drop their Christmas trees through Jan. 7. On Jan. 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., seedlings will be given away at the same locations.

If you live in the Hahira area, you can drop your trees off in the field at the corner of Lawson St. and Lowndes St.

Another main trash culprit during the holidays is wrapping paper. To reduce the amount of trash, wrap gifts in recycled or reused wrapping paper. Also remember to save or recycle used wrapping paper. Another way to reduce the amount of wrapping paper is to give gifts that don't require much packaging, like gift certificates.

It's also a good idea to check product labels to determine an item's recyclability and durability before you buy it as a gift. Cheaper, less durable items often wear out quickly, creating waste and costing money. After the present has been opened and it's still in the package, don't forget the packaging can often be recycled.

Greeting cards are also a great way to connect during the holiday season, but most end up in the trash. Send recycled-content greeting cards to reduce the amount of new paper used during the holidays. Recycle any paper cards you receive and try electronic greeting cards as a way to reduce paper waste.

There is also an increase in battery sales, accounting for approximately 40 percent of yearly purchases of the item. To reduce the amount of potentially harmful materials thrown away, buy rechargeable batteries for electronic gifts.

To reduce energy costs, turn off decorative lights at specific times. This will not only save money and electricity, but will also cut down on possible fire hazards.

On base, dumpsters and recycling bins will be monitored for overflows and if you need pickup, call the Recycling Center at 229-257-1993.

While the holidays are about family, friends and fun, you should also stay environmentally aware during the holiday season. If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the 23rd CES asset management flight at 229-257-3849.