Most of us look forward to the festive season all year long. It’s a time of togetherness and indulgence – but Christmas doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet.
It’s reported that over 100,000 tonnes of plastic packaging are thrown away each Christmas, along with large quantities of glass, card and cardboard. It’s a shocking figure that gets lost in the season’s excitement.
Luckily, making mindful choices that benefit your family and the environment isn’t about compromising on fun or magic. Here are some simple yet impactful ideas to help you enjoy an eco-friendly festive season.
Sustainable Decorations
Christmas decorations bring cheer to our homes, but they can also generate waste. This year, think about swapping mass-produced baubles for homemade ornaments.
There are so many easy-to-make, chic DIY Christmas decoration ideas. Dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks and pinecones add rustic charm and are compostable after the season ends.
You could craft garlands or wreaths together as a family using natural materials like holly or wreaths. LED fairy lights are excellent energy-efficient replacements for traditional incandescent bulbs.
Mindful Gift-Giving
Gifting preoccupies a lot of our time and money over Christmas, but it often leads to overconsumption. Instead, focus on quality over quantity by focusing on experiences by giving tickets for theatre or group activities.
Handmade gifts like baked treats or knitted scarves add a personal touch and reduce waste. You should also explore second-hand or sustainably made products.
If you’re concerned about overspending this Christmas period, consider using a credit card to help support your budget. Just remember to stay in control of your spending!
Sustainable Festive Food
The Christmas feast is a highlight of the season, but it can also be a significant source of waste. Planning meals carefully can help reduce leftovers and turn any scraps into soups, stock or compost. Anything else, you can freeze excess portions for later.
Opt for locally sourced, seasonal produce to minimise the carbon footprint of your meal. Not only is this kinder to the planet, but it also supports local farmers and enhances the freshness of your dishes.
Avoid heavily plastic-packaged items by shopping at farmer’s markets or zero-waste shops.
Green Christmas Travel
There are relatives to see, presents to drop off and food to pick up so travel is often the largest contributor to your festive carbon footprint. Where possible, swap the car for walking or cycling for short journeys. You could try and carpool with family members for larger gatherings.
If you’re hosting, reduce the need for multiple trips by coordinating your guests’ travel plans. Offering a virtual option for those far away can also reduce travel emissions while still bringing everyone together.
