Recycling what Christmas left behind

British Columbians can produce up to three times as much garbage during Christmas as they would in a normal week, according to the Recycling Council of B.C.

So it's no wonder that some of us may be staring at a big pile of mess in our living rooms or garages and wondering what to do with it all now.

Harv Ajuala, information services manager with theRecycling Council of B.C.has some advice for those looking to tackle the post-Christmas mess in a green manner.

1. Wrapping paper

If the wrapping paperis 100 per cent paper, it's recyclable. If there is foil,cellophane or lots of glitter it goes into the garbage. The quick test is to see if you can tear the wrapping paper or not.

"Think of a magazine that is glossy and shiny and that is recyclable. If it's shiny, it's recyclableas long as it's not metallic or foil," saidAujala.

2. Christmas lights

Don't chuck the lights.They fall under a recycling light fixtures program and can be dropped off at a recycling depot for free.

"Now we can recycle the bulbs, not just the strings," said Aujala.

3. Christmas trees

There are plenty of Christmas tree-chipping events around the province. The City of Vancouver will even pick up your Christmas tree if you leave it on the curb during the week of Jan. 16.

"Double-check [with the city's website] and make sure what the requirements are," saidAujala.

She says some municipalities require the trees to be chopped up in the green bin, while others will take it whole.

But either way, do not bag your Christmas tree, and make sure there is no tinsel, ornaments or other decorations left on your tree.

"Make sure it's out in the open," she said, "and take your tree naked."

4. Electronics

If you've scored some new gadgets and need to get rid of your old ones, there are a few options.

"If the old stuff is working, give our recycling hotline a call and we can tell you if any charities can take it," she said.

If not, they can be recycled for free at a depot.

5. No idea?

If you can't figure out if the item is recyclable, call 604-RECYCLE or 1-800-667-4321 before you chuck it to see what recycling or reuse options are available.

To listen to the full interview click the audio labelledHow to recycle what Christmas left behind on the CBC's The Early Edition.