Spokane's residents are alerted that garbage and curbside recycling pickups will be delayed due to the Christmas holiday, with Friday's collections moving to Saturday. The article provides essential tips for managing holiday waste, emphasizing the need to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Residents are advised to break down and flatten cardboard boxes for efficient recycling, while non-recyclable materials, such as plastic bubble wrap and metallic gift wrap, should be placed in the garbage cart. To further support waste reduction, the article suggests creating designated spaces for recyclable items and separating glossy greeting cards from recyclable ones. The city will offer a free pickup service for fresh Christmas trees starting December 30, provided they are cut down appropriately.

Additionally, the article urges residents to dispose of batteries responsibly by taking them to designated waste areas, as they should never be placed in regular trash or recycling. By following these guidelines, Spokane residents can significantly reduce their environmental footprint during the holiday season, serving as a timely reminder of the importance of responsible waste management during a period often marked by excess.