The holidays are a time to gather with friends and family, and gifting is a big part of the festive fun. That said, the holidays can also be a great time for mindfulness when it comes to sustainability and the environment.
Throughout the years, after holiday gatherings with friends or sitting around the tree on Christmas morning, I’ve always noticed how full the trash bags can become with boxes, paper, disposable bows, and plastic wrapping.
According to The Ecology Center in Berkeley, California, Americans throw away an additional five million tons of trash – 25% more than usual – between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. This is largely due to non-recyclable paper, plastic packaging and more.
As a student concerned for the environment, I’ve realized the holidays can be a great time to lead by example and help educate friends and family on small steps we can all take to reduce seasonal waste together.
Here are a few tips for staying green when the holidays arrive.
1. Think outside the box.
Instead of purchasing or asking for boxes when buying presents, choose to wrap items in recyclable paper. This traditional approach to wrapping saves bags and bags of discarded wrapping waste.
2. “Brown paper packages tied up with string.”
Brown wrapping paper may seem boring at first, but it is timeless and classy, just as the famous song suggests. Brown paper is the most environmentally thoughtful option for gift wrapping and can be simply perked up with some of the suggestions that follow.
3. Stock up on reels of fabric bows.
A festive fabric bow can be saved, re-used, or repurposed for decorating or accessorizing. Twine is also a great, rustic option.
4. Turn to nature.
Pinecones, holly, foliage and small sprigs from winter trees or bushes can help create a gift with an extra special touch without the waste.
5. Reuse old gift bags.
Reusable gift bags – both paper and fabric – are a great way to save discarded paper and boxes. Not only can they be reused, they can also be repurposed for storage and decoration.
6. Purchase recyclable tape.
Plastic tape adds dramatically to the recycling problem. Choose paper tape options or learn DIY non-tape wrapping techniques online.
7. Buy from eco-friendly retailers.
Research retailer packaging and delivery options when purchasing gifts online. When possible, order your gifts at once, to reduce multiple deliveries.
8. Get creative.
Cups, jars, vases and other items can be a great way to give candy, jewelry, treats and small gifts. They can also become keepsake gifts in themselves, adding to the memory.
Considering these options will not only help you feel good about your gift giving this holiday season, but it will also cut down cleanup time and save bags and bags of waste. Whatever holiday you celebrate, choose sustainability to make it even happier!
About the Author
YOUTH COALITION MEMBER
