It can feel like a pretty overwhelming time of year, but there are also so many different things to look forward to. Have you made a start with your Christmas shopping yet? If you still have some things to get, then you might be wondering how you can have a more sustainable Christmas this year. There is so much waste at this time of year, and looking for plastic-free options is a good idea. There are many other aspects to think about, but here are my eco-friendly and sustainable Christmas tips.
For example, you could order in some wooden toys from thousands of miles away. No plastic in sight. But if they have had to travel quite far, then it can mean that it isn't all that sustainable, as it has had a large carbon footprint to get to you. So it is worth thinking about a variety of different aspects. So here are some sustainable ways to 'do' Christmas this year.
Gift Experiences
If you want to reduce waste and cut down on plastic and wrapping paper that can't be recycled, think about gifting an experience instead. It could be giving vouchers for an afternoon tea, or getting cinema gift cards, for example.
Use Recycled Brown Paper
There are many rolls of wrapping paper that can't be recycled. If you scrunch it up and it doesn't hold its shape, then the chances are that is has plastic in in. So instead, using brown parcel packing paper can be a good alternative. It can be recycled, as well as being able to be decorated so that you can make it personalised.
Buy Local
If you are looking for food and gifts, then getting local products and items is one of the best things that you can do. It can help the economy locally, but it can also help to reduce the carbon footprint of the item. Even something as simple as kiln dried logs for your log burner can be imported. So look out for British and local made items, so that you can do your bit for sustainability.
Recycling real trees
If you choose a fake tree, then you just need to make sure that you look after it well, so that it can be used for many years to come. But if you choose a real tree, then knowing how to best dispose of it is a really good idea. Many councils will collect trees, but you can also dispose yourself at a waste centre. This helps them to be recycled as they are shredded and then used as mulch in parks and so on. You could always compost yourself.
Vegetarian and vegan recipes
Being a veggie or vegan these days doesn't mean that you have to have bland food. You don't even have to have a standard nut roast for your Christmas dinner; there are plenty of options. And if you buy ingredients locally, then it can be one of the most sustainable ways to eat at this time of year.
Did you find this post on sustainable Christmas tips useful? Share it with your friends or Pin it for later...
You might also like...
Leave a Reply