Recycle & Reuse: Embrace the chill: Eco-friendly cold-weather activities to explore

Published 8:00 am Thursday, December 28, 2023

As the temperatures drop and winter settles in, it’s the perfect time to explore cold-weather activities that not only embrace the chill but also prioritize environmental consciousness. From the surprising beauty of winter to the cozy activities we can partake in, there is a lot to be joyful about this season.

A couple of years ago I went on my first winter hike. To be honest, I wasn’t expecting much. What could there be to enjoy with all the bare trees and no flowers? To my surprise, it turned out to be one of my favorite times to hike. The emptiness of the trails leads to a profound sense of peace. If you have ever been interested in birdwatching it is the perfect time to take a crack at it. Thanks to the leaves falling, spotting birds becomes easier. Plus, the lack of people tends to make the area quieter so you can hear the bird calls more clearly.

You can elevate your winter hiking activity by turning it into a mission to clean up the trails. Carry a bag and gloves with you and pick up any litter you see during your hike. This not only enhances your outdoor experience but also adds a game-like element as you try to spot and collect litter along the way. The act of bending down to pick up litter also adds a bit more movement, helping to keep you warm in the brisk winter air.

For an indoor activity that can make the outdoors more enjoyable, try taking a turn at upcycling. Grab some old sweaters and turn them into mittens or scarves with minimal sewing skills required.

You can also try bringing the outdoors in with nature-inspired crafts. Create wreaths and centerpieces to use throughout your home. Using pinecones can be beautiful, but make sure to bake them at 200 degrees Fahrenheit and bake them for 25 to 30 minutes, checking every 15 minutes. This helps get rid of any little insects that may be hiding out in the pinecones so you don’t have them crawling out of your centerpiece onto your dining room table.

Unleash your inner adventurer by exploring local trails on a bicycle. Dalton boasts numerous bike-friendly paths that showcase the region’s natural beauty. Try out Raisin Woods Park or Mount Rachel. Winter cycling allows you to experience the crisp air and serene landscapes without the summer heat.

Amid these nature-centered activities it’s crucial to reflect on the broader impact of environmental responsibility. A powerful way to contribute to environmental sustainability is by participating in recycling. It doesn’t take long to stop by one of our four convenience centers and throw in your paper, cardboard, glass, plastic and metal for recycling, and you get to hop right back in your warm car after. It is heartwarming to see all of the recycling piled up from other people in the community that care about creating a clean and healthy Dalton and know that you are doing your part. Visiting a recycling center in the winter can motivate you to adopt more eco-friendly practices in your daily life with little effort.

Cold weather and shorter daylight can have you feeling low if you like to feel connected to nature but by going out of your comfort zone a little you can still have a wonderful winter season filled with time appreciating our environment.

Amy Hartline is the recycling and education program coordinator for the Dalton-Whitfield Solid Waste Authority. Have a recycling question? Contact her at (706) 278-5001 or ahartline@dwswa.org.