Tackling Waste at Christmas: Tips for a Sustainable December

The holiday season is often thought of as a time of giving, joy, and celebration. However, it is also a time known for generating an enormous amount of waste. From gift wrapping to food waste, this season can put a significant strain on the environment. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. There are plenty of things we can do to tackle holiday waste and have a more sustainable December. In this blog post, we will be sharing some tips and tricks on how to make your holiday season more eco-friendly and reduce your carbon footprint.

1. Shop Smart:

Before starting your holiday shopping, take a moment to think about what you plan to buy. Make a list and prioritize buying eco-friendly, locally sourced, and sustainable products. Consider supporting small businesses, buying handmade or secondhand items, and choosing items with minimal packaging. These small changes can make a big difference in reducing the amount of waste generated during the holiday season.

2. Get Creative with Gift Wrapping:

Instead of using traditional, store-bought gift wrapping, embrace your creative side. Consider using reusable bags, scarves, or fabric for wrapping gifts. You can also reuse old newspapers, magazines, or even paper shopping bags for a unique and eco-friendly gift wrapping option. For those who love adding a personal touch, use natural elements like pine cones, twine, and dried flowers for a more rustic and sustainable gift wrapping style.

3. Reduce Food Waste:

Food waste is a significant contributor to holiday waste, so it’s essential to reduce it as much as possible. Plan meals carefully, buy only what you need, and use leftovers creatively. Encourage your guests to take home leftover food to avoid food waste. You can also donate leftover food to local shelters or food banks to reduce food waste and help those in need.

4. Embrace Sustainable Decorations:

Holiday decorations are an essential part of creating the festive spirit. However, many decorations are made of plastic and are designed to last for only one season. Instead, opt for sustainable decorations made from natural materials like wood, pine cones, and dried flowers. Also, consider switching to LED lights, which are more energy-efficient and last longer than traditional lights.

5. Give the Gift of Experiences:

Instead of giving tangible gifts that might end up in the landfill, consider giving the gift of experiences. Tickets to a show, a cooking or art class, or a wine tasting tour can be an excellent alternative to traditional gifts. Not only are you reducing waste, but you’re also giving a memorable and meaningful gift that the recipient will treasure.

Conclusion:

The holiday season doesn’t have to be a time of waste and excess. By making some small changes to your holiday routines, you can have a more sustainable December that is both eco-friendly and memorable. Shopping smart, getting creative with gift wrapping, reducing food waste, embracing sustainable decorations, and giving the gift of experiences are all great ways to tackle holiday waste and make a positive impact on the environment. Let’s all work towards a more sustainable holiday season, one step at a time.