Why your holiday gift returns might go to a landfill and what you can do about it

Climate Choices Holiday Returns - (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

The holiday season will soon come to a close, but the busiest time of the year for product returns is just beginning.

The National Retail Federation estimates 17% of holiday purchases will be sent back this year. More retailers are reporting extended return windows and increased holiday staff to handle the rush this year.