A family-owned resource management company, TDS operates one of the region’s most advanced recycling facilities, offering a wide range of services from metal and glass recycling to composting organic materials. With a commitment to sustainability, TDS is a local leader in sustainable waste practices.
Why recycling trees matters
Public Relations Manager, Katy Fordyce stresses the importance of properly recycling holiday trees and decorations.
"Many people throw their trees in the trash once the holidays are over, or they mistakenly believe they can just toss their trees into a field,” Fordyce said. “While this may seem harmless, it can irritate local ecosystems and wildlife. Recycling your tree at a designated drop-off location or leaving on your curb for green waste or compost collection ensures it’s processed in an environmentally responsible way.”
Beginning December 26 through January 31, TDS will begin accepting Christmas trees and other organic holiday decorations for recycling. TDS has six drop-off locations throughout the Central Texas region from Georgetown to Victoria for you to drop your tree and other organic holiday decorations at.
Christmas tree recycling is free of charge* at the designated TDS locations. Residents should ensure all decorations, including ornaments, tinsel, and lights, are removed before recycling.
*A $55 contamination fee will be assessed for trees and decorations that have not been cleaned.
When bringing loads for drop off, make sure the material is tied and secured, per Texas law.
For cities with TDS green waste service, TDS offers curbside collection of unflocked Christmas trees for recycling from December 26 through January 31. For area specific guidelines, visit the TDS Christmas tree recycling page.
Recycling transforms trees into other valuable resources
Once collected, the trees are processed at TDS’ facility, where they are turned into organic mulch and compost. The mulch and compost produced from recycled trees are distributed by Garden-Ville, a TDS affiliated company, which specializes in high-quality, eco-friendly products made from recycled green waste.
“The mulch and compost at Garden-Ville is a beneficial additive to soils and gardens to beautify landscapes,” Fordyce said. “As well as, freeing up landfill space.”
What about artificial trees?
Unlike real trees, artificial trees cannot be recycled at TDS facilities. TDS encourages residents to reuse or donate artificial trees to extend their life cycle and prevent them from ending up in landfills. TDS also recommends choosing real trees, which can be composted at the end of the season, as a more sustainable option.
“Doing your part during the holiday season is important,” Fordyce said. “By recycling and choosing sustainable options during the holidays, we’re not only helping our community but making a positive impact on the planet.”
Additional sustainability tips for the holiday season
To further promote sustainability this season, TDS suggests the following eco-friendly practices:
- Using plain wrapping paper instead of metallic or glitter paper (which cannot be recycled).
- Wrapping gifts in reusable fabric, such as bandanas or scarves.
- Gift second-hand items to reduce waste and give items a second life.
“We want our community to feel confident in TDS’ recycling services and know that when they recycle with us, they’re making a difference,” Fordyce said.
The above story was produced by Multi Platform Journalist Mary Katherine Shapiro with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.
