Unwrap wisely

Last week in this space, we suggested eco-sensitive ways to wrap presents. This week, courtesy of the Butte Environmental Council, we offer some tips for what to do when you’ve unwrapped gifts.

• If you have received any musical greeting cards this season, you should know that they can contain a small amount of mercury. This means they cannot be thrown in the trash; instead, they should be brought to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 1111 Maurader Street (out by the Chico Airport).

• Don’t put wrapping paper in the fireplace— it often contains metallic materials that can be toxic if burned.

• For items that require batteries, choose recyclable batteries. Remember to bring dead batteries to recycling locations since they cannot be discarded in the trash. Find a recycling location near you by visiting www.recyclebutte.net.

• Save and reuse the holiday cards you received by cutting off the picture side and sending them as postcards or thank-you cards.