Now that the initial excitement of New Year’s Eve has settled and the calendar is officially in full swing, many Lincoln homeowners are shifting from planning their 2026 goals to actually doing the work. By late January, the “honeymoon phase” of your resolutions is over, and the real labor of decluttering and organizing has begun.
However, as we push through our winter projects, it’s easy to overlook the environmental impact of how we dispose of our unwanted items. While we all want a “clean start,” we don’t want it to come at the expense of the planet. By choosing an eco friendly approach to your mid-winter reset, you can significantly reduce carbon emissions and ensure your 2026 goals are as sustainable as they are successful.
By late January, the local landfills are usually feeling the weight of the holiday season. Statistics show that the period between Thanksgiving and the end of January represents the highest volume of residential waste in the U.S.
Methane Production: As organic materials—like your old Christmas tree or food scraps—break down in a landfill, they release methane. This is a greenhouse gas that is over 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat.
Energy Consumption: Manufacturing new products to replace what we’ve tossed requires massive amounts of energy. Participating in a local recycling program saves up to 90% of the energy needed to create products from raw materials.
Plastic Waste: From plastic bottles to shipping film, the footprint of single use plastics can last for centuries.
Reducing your impact starts with small, sustainable shifts. You don’t need a total lifestyle overhaul to make a difference; you just need a better system for your waste.
The “New Year, New Wardrobe” mentality often fuels the cycle of fast fashion. The clothing industry is responsible for nearly 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Instead of tossing old clothes, look for textile recycling or local donation centers. Keeping fabric out of the landfill prevents dyes and microplastics from entering our local Lincoln soil.
One of the easiest resolutions to maintain is switching to reusable alternatives.
Replace plastic water bottles with a high-quality stainless steel flask.
Keep a reusable bag in your car so you never have to reach for plastic shopping bags at the store.
Transition away from single use plastics like straws and cutlery.
In late January, many of us are cleaning out the pantry to make room for healthier habits.
Compost: Turn your scraps into nutrient rich soil for your spring garden.
Plan: Shop with a list to avoid overbuying, which is a leading cause of reducing food waste.
Since we are nearing the end of the “holiday cleanup” window, keep these specific local resources in mind to help you stay eco friendly:
Tree and Light Recycling: The City of Lincoln provides Christmas tree drop-off sites (like Tierra Park or Woods Park) and light recycling drives through mid-to-late January. Check the local how it works page for the latest updates on city-managed drop-offs.
E-Waste Disposal: For old electronics, sites like American Recycling or Sadoff E-Recycling in Lincoln are your best bet for keeping heavy metals out of the trash.
HazToGo Center: Located at 5101 North 48th Street, this is where you should take old paint thinner, pesticides, or chemicals uncovered during your garage cleanout.
Deciding to handle your waste responsibly isn’t just about the planet—it’s about your local community. When you utilize professional services that understand local regulations, you ensure that your “clean start” doesn’t create a long-term problem for the Nebraska ecosystem.
At Rocket Rolloff, we aren’t just here to haul things away; we’re here to help you manage your environmental impact. We provide clear guidance on what can be diverted from the landfill to help you lower your energy consumption. You can learn more about us and our commitment to a cleaner, greener Lincoln on our website.
As you tackle the final days of January, remember that reducing your carbon footprint is a marathon. Every item you recycle, every sustainable brand you support, and every piece of plastic waste you avoid is a victory.
Let this be the year you move beyond just “cleaning up” and move toward “cleaning responsibly.” Your home will feel better, your mind will be clearer, and the planet will thank you.
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