By Bethany Holtz - Outreach Manager
As the holiday season settles in, it's the perfect time to embrace sustainability and reduce our environmental impact. A plastic-free holiday not only benefits the planet but also adds a unique and thoughtful touch to your celebrations. Here are 10 tips to help you make this festive season eco-friendly, from decorations and gifts to wrapping and parties.
Natural Decorations: Deck the halls with nature's beauty. Opt for reusable and compostable decorations like pinecones, dried flowers, or wooden ornaments. Create a festive atmosphere with potted plants, wreaths made from sustainable materials, and LED lights to conserve energy.
DIY Ornaments: Get creative with DIY ornaments made from materials like recycled paper, cloth, or even upcycled items from around your home. This not only reduces waste but also adds a personal touch to your holiday decor.
Eco-Friendly Gift Wrap: Say goodbye to traditional wrapping paper, much of which is not recyclable. Instead, use reusable alternatives like fabric, scarves, or even newspaper for a unique and eco-friendly touch. Top it off with natural twine or reusable ribbon.
Gifts with a Purpose: Consider giving gifts that promote sustainability, such as reusable water bottles, eco-friendly skincare products, or experiences like cooking classes or spa treatments. You can also gift symbolic items. Figure out what your gift recipient’s favorite cause is and donate in their name. There are lots of great ideas out there like adopting a sea turtle hatchling in their name. Choose items with minimal or plastic-free packaging to further reduce waste.
Digital Invitations: Reduce paper waste by sending out digital invitations for your holiday gatherings. Platforms like Evite or Paperless Post offer festive designs and make it easy for guests to RSVP without the need for physical invites.
Plastic-Free Partyware: Swap out disposable plastic plates, cups, and cutlery for biodegradable or compostable alternatives made from materials like bamboo, sugarcane, or cornstarch. Encourage guests to bring their reusable cups and utensils to reduce single-use plastic waste.
Zero-Waste Gift Exchanges: If you're organizing a gift exchange, consider a zero-waste theme. Encourage participants to choose gifts without excessive packaging or opt for experiences rather than physical items. This not only reduces plastic waste but also promotes mindful consumption.
Homemade Treats: Instead of buying store-bought sweets in plastic packaging, opt for homemade treats. Bake cookies, craft granola, or create personalized jars of layered hot cocoa mix. Package them in reusable containers or cloth bags for a plastic-free and delicious gift.
Sustainable Holiday Cards: Choose holiday cards made from recycled paper or, better yet, send digital cards. If you prefer the traditional touch of a physical card, look for options with minimal or recyclable packaging or make you own cards from materials you already have on hand.
Donate and Volunteer: Celebrate the true spirit of the season by giving back. Instead of accumulating more material possessions, encourage friends and family to donate to a charity of their choice or volunteer together. It's a meaningful way to spread joy without contributing to the plastic waste problem.
This holiday season, let's celebrate with intention and compassion for our planet. Embracing a plastic-free holiday not only reduces our ecological footprint but also sets a positive example for future celebrations. By making small, thoughtful changes, we can create a festive atmosphere that brings joy to our loved ones and the Earth alike. Cheers to a sustainable and memorable holiday season!