12/8/25

By Alexander Fletcher, Staff Writer

ROCKLAND- During the holiday season, most families focus on presents, decorations, and celebrations. However, two individuals say there’s a side of Christmas many overlook: the environmental cost. From mountains of wrapping paper to leftover waste from holiday gatherings, some experts and parents believe the season creates far more trash than people realize.

Meg Kudla, a Rockland parent who hosts Christmas every year, can see firsthand how much packaging and wrapping get thrown away during the holiday rush.

“Normally, we’d use about two rolls of paper at the maximum, but the majority are gift bags,” said Kudla.

Kudla explained that her family tries to be mindful about the materials they use during the holidays.

“Every year, we have piles of leftovers, so we send everyone home with food in store-bought containers,” Kudla said. 

She added that switching from traditional wrapping paper to reusable gift bags has already reduced the amount of trash her family produces.

“But if guests brought their own containers, it would cut back on so much waste. We’re also trying to find better ways to share leftover food with people who need it,”Kudla added.

To understand the environmental impact more scientifically, Rockland High School Biology teacher Ms. Chelsea Savage explained how holiday waste contributes to long-term pollution.

“People don’t realize how much single-use holiday materials add up—especially wrapping paper and paper towels. They’re not reusable, so they end up in landfills and contribute to long-term pollution,” said Ms. Savage.

She also noted that some of these materials break down into microplastics, which can contaminate ecosystems for decades.

Ms. Savage added that small changes can make a big difference.

“One realistic change families can make is switching to reusable gift bags or yearly packaging,” Ms. Savage said.

“In my family, each child has their own decorated Christmas bag that we use every year, and it cuts down on so much waste,” said Ms. Savage.

Kudla and Ms. Savage agreed that Christmas traditions don’t need to disappear; they just need to be adjusted. 

Kudla said her family reuses bags, recycles whenever possible, and is looking for ways to reduce leftover waste after holiday meals. 

Ms. Savage suggested that families focus on sustainable swaps, like reusable containers and eco-friendly packaging.

Christmas can remain joyful without creating unnecessary harm. With a little awareness and small changes, families can celebrate in a way that’s festive and environmentally responsible. Keep the spirit high while keeping the planet in mind.