Dreaming of a Greener Christmas
As December rolls around, it’s easy (and wonderful) to get swept away by the frosty, peaceful days, glowing lights that adorn downtowns and neighborhoods, and your favorite classic holiday movies with some popcorn and mulled cider. It’s a magical time of year that I always look forward to, but I can’t help but think about how a holiday like Christmas can have a negative impact on our environment.
From the gift-wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows that are discarded in garbage cans as soon as they’re ripped from presents to stocking stuffers that are quickly forgotten and ultimately end up sitting in a landfill, the holidays can be a time when we tend to over-purchase, overconsume, and get lax on the mindful eco-friendly practices that we employ in every other month of the year.
During this holiday season, I’m hoping that we can all extend the thoughtfulness that we engage when purchasing gifts for loved ones to how we treat our planet and find creative ways—both big and small—to mitigate some of the damage done during this time of year and prove that you can have a jolly holiday that is also eco-friendly. I was inspired by this One Tree Planted article to share some simple ways we can do our part below.
1. It’s a Wrap on Traditional Gift Wrap
The typical gift-wrapping paper purchased in stores is made of unsustainable materials that are not recyclable. Given how quickly we rip through wrappings and then throw them in the garbage bins, it could make a huge difference if we switched to wrapping presents in recyclable materials—bonus points if you’re reusing the material, like repurposing a brown paper bag. If that feels too aesthetically boring for you, decorating it with festive stamps, some natural twine, and greenery or pine cones is a great way to elevate the presentation.
2. Keep it Real
Contrary to what some people may think, opting for a real tree over an artificial one is actually better for the environment. That’s because artificial trees are made of a massive amount of harmful, unrecyclable plastic. Finding a local farm near you that responsibly plants the trees they sell (sans chemicals and pesticides) is more eco-friendly and gives you a fun, timeless holiday tradition to partake in. When the holiday cheer has subsided and it’s time to take down the tree, research recycling programs near you.
3. Gifts That Matter
It’s easy to feel pressure to give everyone important in your life a present during the holidays, but if we’re being real, many of those presents go unused, contributing to the amount of waste that the holidays contribute to. First of all, release yourself from the pressure of purchasing everyone you know a present—the holidays do not need to be about that! Taking time to let your loved ones know how important they are to you and spending quality time with them, if you’re able to, will prove to be more precious than material items. If you do feel inspired to give gifts, consider ones that you know will be used, a handmade gift, or an experience, like a play, concert, or local museum.
4. LED-lightful
Most of us have switched to LED lightbulbs in our homes, but did you know you can also purchase Christmas lights that have LED bulbs? They use less energy (saving you money on your monthly bill) and last longer, making them the obvious choice if you’re attempting to go green.
5. Shop Local
This final idea is also one that is important during every month of the year, but because we buy so much more in December than at any other time of the year, it is especially important in December. Shopping from local, small businesses reduces the waste and carbon emissions that accompany online shopping and shipping. Large corporations tend to be massive contributors to negative environmental impacts. As a bonus, you’re putting money into your community’s economy—a win all around.
I’d love to hear your own ideas on how to get green during the holidays, so please reach out. Hope you have a happy—and sustainable—holiday season!