THUNDER BAY — Reducing trash could pay off for lucky Thunder Bay residents.
City officials on Monday announced the Ho Ho Hold the Waste holiday waste reduction contest, and are asking residents to show creative and sustainable ways of reducing the amount of garbage they produce during the holiday season.
Each of the three weeks features a theme.
Week 1, which started on Sunday and runs through Dec. 21., is based on low-waste giving that leaves a minimal footprint on the environment, like presents that are thrifted, reusable or organic, consumable or edible items or experiences. It could also be gifts in eco-friendly packaging.
Week 2 is green decorating, indoors and out, while using natural, reusable materials, which may be fresh, recycled or recyclable.
Finally, in week 3 residents will be asked to showcase conscious clean-up, showcasing responsible disposal and repurposing, properly sorting recyclables and gift wrap, composting trees and donating unwanted gifts rather than throwing them out.
To enter, follow the Thunder Bay solid waste and recycling services Facebook page and post photos or video on the social media site related to the particular week’s theme, using the hashtag #HoHoHoldTheWaste.
"The holidays are a great time to promote sustainability and waste reduction in the city, and showcase how we can celebrate in an environmentally responsible way,” said Jason Sherband, manager of solid waste and recycling services.
"Extra waste is typically generated during the holiday season, so we’re excited to invite people to show us their inventive and practical solutions for reducing that."
Winners will be selected on the basis of creativity and theme relevance and each winner will receive a prize pack.
Visit www.thunderbay.ca/christmas for more information.
