That could also save you money!
The holiday season is rapidly approaching. It’s that special time of year when we exchange gifts, embrace cherished traditions and indulge in delicious feasts. However, there is a not-so-jolly side to the festive season: Christmas generates approximately 30% more waste than any other time of the year, and by the time spring arrives, a disheartening 41% of the gifts given have already found their way to landfills. As much as we love the spirit of the time of year, there is no doubt it could benefit from a zero waste makeover.
We’re sharing our top tips to reduce waste and save money over the holiday season. So let’s get started!
1. Redefine your traditions
Many of us cherish our Christmas traditions, but this year, why not take time to consider what you buy, why you buy it and if it can be replaced with a less wasteful alternative? Traditional items such as crackers and stocking fillers are often made with plastic and end up in the bin after a few hours. Instead of plastic-filled crackers, try just having just the jokes on the table for everyone to read and enjoy. Experiment with getting crafty and making plastic-free stockings and advent calendars. They could be filled with home-baked biscuits or purposeful gifts.
If you own plastic decorations or a synthetic Christmas tree, there’s no need to rush into a zero-waste overhaul. Transition to plastic-free options when your current items need replacing. When they do, explore your local second-hand shops for unique decorations.
2. Stop food waste
Many Christmas menu items are out of tradition rather than genuine enjoyment. When planning your festive menu, reflect on past waste. What food was barely touched and ended up in the trash? What food has everyone coming back for seconds? Consider embracing new traditions centred around food everyone enjoys. Create a meal plan and research recipes for your anticipated leftovers in advance. Having a plan will prevent overbuying and make it easier to reduce waste during the busy and often stressful Christmas season.
3. Reduce packaging waste
When planning your menu, opting for locally available and in-season ingredients can reduce packaging waste and result in better quality produce. Exotic or out-of-season items in supermarkets often come wrapped in unnecessary plastic and have a higher carbon footprint. Smaller local businesses may have refill and reuse systems in place, or they may be open to discussing eco-friendly options.
It’s not just food packaging that creates plastic waste. Many people don’t realise that glitter and metallic paper contain plastic. Glitter, in particular, is just ready-made microplastic. Some glitter is now marketed as “biodegradable”, but this is misleading and should also be avoided. We have a social media post that delves into this issue in more detail. One way to avoid glitter-covered Christmas cards, or paper cards with limited shelf life, is to send an e-card instead. Trash Hero offers a range of e-cards for every occasion, with all donations going toward our programmes working to reduce plastic pollution.
To determine if your wrapping paper contains plastic, try the “crumple test.” If you crush foil or shiny paper, and it stays crumpled when you release it, it’s a good sign. However, if it contains plastic, it will spring back or have a slight mark. This is mixed material and cannot be recycled. Any type of wrapping paper is expensive, so why not use old newspapers or magazines or utilise pillowcases? Remember, the heart of the season lies in the gift, not in the extravagance of the packaging.
4. Give mindfully
The holiday season is all about giving, but do we need to give people more stuff that will end up in landfills? Instead, you could offer the gift of experience. It doesn’t have to break the bank – it could be as simple as cooking a meal, going for a leisurely walk, or trying out a new activity together. These experiential gifts reduce waste, nurture your bonds, and create cherished memories with your loved ones.
For those who wish to make a lasting impact beyond the holidays, consider making a charitable donation. Your generosity can bring joy to others in need, embodying the true spirit of the season.
5. Receive thoughtfully
It’s also important to let your loved ones know you prefer not to receive physical gifts, and explain why. This reduces demand for unnecessary physical items and will encourage them to give more mindfully. If your friends and family insist on purchasing gifts for you, kindly suggest they opt for items you genuinely need. Encourage them to explore second-hand or charity stores. This will both save them money and contribute to a great cause.
Receiving thoughtfully is a powerful way to raise awareness and inspire others to adopt more conscious choices, benefiting both our planet and our communities.
Bonus tip – Be a Trash Hero!
You can be a part of the solution this holiday season! Trash Hero chapters organise cleanups worldwide throughout the year. You’re invited to join, and it’s free! Find your nearest chapter and get involved in reducing plastic pollution in your community. If there’s no chapter in your area, get in touch today to learn more about starting your own with friends and family. If you don’t have time to start a chapter, you can still be a Trash Hero every day. Say no to single-use plastics and promote reuse and refills at local events. Share this post with your friends to inspire a less wasteful holiday!
Having a completely zero-waste Christmas is challenging, but taking small steps can create meaningful, sustainable celebrations that connect us with our loved ones and the planet. Do you have any additional tips for reducing waste and saving money this holiday season? Share your insights in the comments below!
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