6 Easy Tips for an Eco- Friendly Christmas

Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year – unfortunately, it can be also one of the most wasteful. It’s no surprise that many of us get o overwhelmed in the sea of tinsel, wrapping paper, and plastic cups and toys, and we find ourselves thinking there must be a better way! With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy a more mindful and conscious festive season, which is great for both you, the planet, and your wallet!

1. Ditch the disposables It may seem easy to reach for disposable cups & plates for your festive events, but these single-use items are super costly to the planet and your wallet. Ditch the disposables and use your regular cups & plates. Not only will your guests enjoying eating off regular plates & cutlery your garbage bin will be grateful too! Don’t have enough to cater? Ask around friends & family to see if you can borrow what you need or take a trip to your local charity shop and pick up some pretty serving sets for a couple of dollars, and when you’re done, simply donate them back to the store!

Now, I can hear you saying that you won't don't want to deal with dishes or clean up... Well, washing dishes and clean up requires teamwork..and washing & drying dishes together is a great time for chatting too! But if you really have to use plastic wear there are some more eco-friendly options available. Made with a blend of sustainable, biodegradable, sugarcane, and bamboo, these plates are the perfect eco alternative to plastic. Check out the options here...

2. Decorate with nature

Avoid the plastic decorations and opt to bring elements of the outdoors into your home – not only does it add a beautiful and real seasonal touch, but it will make your space feel and smell amazing! Try creating your own decorations with dried orange slices or making table centerpieces out of recycled glass jars & twigs of rosemary and cinnamon sticks. And if you must have a tree, opt for a real tree over a plastic one. Real trees help to remove carbon from the air while they are growing, and are a 100% biodegradable, renewable resource, unlike their plastic counterparts.

3. Ditch the glossy wrapping paper

There is no doubt that there is some lovely wrapping paper around at this time of year. As you reach for the roll of wrapping paper think about how much processing it takes to make that roll of paper, the bleaching, the colour & printing. Try wrapping your gifts in brown paper, add some festive ribbon or string then add some dried flowers or cute wooden Christmas decoration.

Another way to add a special touch by creating your own unique and waste-free wrapping – Try wrapping gifts with a scarf or fabric piece enclosing in a glass jar, tote bag or even a tea towel!

4. Gift consumables & experiences

When it comes to gifts that create the most joy with the least amount of negative impact, opt for consumables & experiences over gadgets and material objects. Nothing feels more special than receiving a batch of home-made cookies or a home-made jar of hummus, sauce or pickles, or surprise someone with a cooking or gardening workshop they’ve always wanted to try. You can also help to give someone in need a better chance at life, by giving the gift of charity.

5. Do your Christmas shopping at the local farmers market There are countless reasons to support your local food growers - Not only is the food seasonal so it’s fresher and tastes better, but it’s also much better for the environment as it’s usually produced in a much more sustainable way, has to travel far shorter lengths to get to your plate, and is usually much easier to pick up package-free. Plus, you can feel good about supporting small suppliers whilst nourishing your body with real, wholesome foods. While we’re at it, plan your menu for the festive season and be mindful of how much food you’re buying so write a list of all you need so that you’re not sending loads of food to waste after Christmas day!

6. Sustainable swaps Have a friend or family member who isn’t as conscious or aware of plastic waste? Consider gifting an easy zero-waste swap that they can use to replace their current everyday items, such as a reusable stainless-steel water bottle, coffee cup, reusable facial wipes, or shampoo soap bar. Simple swaps are a great way of introducing friends and loved ones to the low waste lifestyle, and as a bonus you’re also supporting companies that have sustainability and low waste as their values, therefore allowing them to create a more positive impact – it’s a win-win! Check out some of the options here wwwthesensitivehome.com

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