Mesa is encouraging residents to reduce, reuse and recycle right this holiday season.

Household waste generation increases by more than 20% in November and December, but many common gifts, decorations and household items purchased during this time of year can be harmful to people or the environment if not properly discarded, according to a release.

The city of Mesa’s solid waste department offers the following reminders and resources to help residents recycle safely and sustainably:

• Pouring frying oil down the drain can cause severe plumbing damage. Instead, recycle it at Mesa’s Household Hazardous Materials facility. Visit mesaaz.gov/hhm for location, hours of operation, and drop-off guidelines.
• Choose decorations and wrappers made from recyclable materials such as paper. Certain gift items such as gift bags, ribbon, embellished gift wrap and greeting cards are not recyclable, along with batteries and electronics. Review Mesa’s list of accepted recycling items at mesarecycles.org.
• Christmas tree recycling drop-off sites will be available to Mesa residents between Dec. 22, 2023, and Jan. 17, 2024. Visit mesaaz.gov/waste for program locations, accepted items and drop-off guidelines.
• Soak fireworks in water overnight before placing them in a garbage container. They may also be taken to the Household Hazardous Materials facility for safe disposal. Visit fire.mesaaz.gov/community-outreach/fireworks for additional fireworks safety information.
• Douse hot coals and firewood with water and allow to cool for 24 hours before disposal. Always bag and tie trash before placing it in your container.
• City of Mesa trash and recycling service is provided Monday through Saturday including all holidays.

More information about recycling guidelines is available at mesarecycles.org or by emailing waste.info@mesaaz.gov for additional information.