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The holiday season is quickly approaching, and whether you celebrate big or not at all, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of consumption that comes with this time of year. Here are 12 ways to help make your holidays a little more sustainable.
1. Gifts
A survey found that 58% of Brits have received unwanted gifts at Christmas. This year, focus on quality over quantity—or consider gifting an experience instead of an item.
2. Decorations
Make your own Christmas decorations! It’s a great way to take a break from everyday chores and a fun activity to do together. Here are some ideas.
3.Wrapping
Eco gift wrapping is a great way to cut down on seasonal waste, for example, old newspaper/magazines or buying handkerchiefs/fabric from charity shops for wrapping.
4. Food
When planning your Christmas meal, try to buy local and seasonal produce. You could also swap some dishes for vegetarian or meat-free alternatives.
5. Buying
Buying second-hand can save money and help the planet. Try looking for your gifts second-hand online or in charity shops before buying new.
6. Lights
When buying lights, opt for LED or solar-powered. Don’t forget to switch them off at night or when you’re out!
7. Cards
Look for cards and wrapping paper made from 100% recycled or FSC-certified paper. Even better, try buying them from a charity shop.
8. Trees
There’s an ongoing debate about whether a plastic tree is better than a real one that gets burned after Christmas. You’d need to reuse a plastic tree for over 10 years to offset its carbon footprint, but most are discarded after just four years. Read more here.
9. Waste
Cut down on food waste this Christmas by checking portion sizes and saving or 'upcycling' leftovers like with this great bubble & squeak recipe you can share with your friends or family.
10. Glitter
Avoid glitter—it’s a microplastic that isn’t recyclable and harms the ocean, even in its biodegradable form.
11. Recycle
Don’t throw old lights or other Christmas e-waste in the bin. Anything with wires, plugs, or batteries should be recycled properly. Find your local recycling point here.
12. Swap
When it comes to Christmas jumpers and other clothing, check your local charity shop, browse online on platforms like Vinted, or organise a swap with friends—especially if you admired their jumper last year!
We hope you found these tips useful and that you have a holly, jolly waste-not-want-not Christmas!
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