Eco-friendly wrapping

It is estimated that during the Christmas season, more than 4 million tons of wrapping paper and shopping bags are thrown away, making up 80% of the excess waste during the festive season. According to Waste Management research, the wasted Christmas wrapping paper that ends in the bin would stretch from the Earth to the Moon. With much of this not being recyclable or put in the wrong bins; that is a massive amount of waste reaching landfill every year. 

A great option is to use reusable bags for gifts. However, if you are going down the wrapping route when choosing wrapping paper make sure that it is made from recycled material and is recyclable. Choose plastic-free tape and sustainable decorations for the parcel. Sustainable, eco-friendly wrapping does not mean you need to compromise on having beautifully wrapped gifts.

We like to make air-drying clay tags with people's names on them that then double up as lovely Christmas tree ornaments so no waste. Another firm favourite to decorate a parcel is using things collected out of the garden, a sprig of holly, or a small wreath made from foliage you have around.

Local Shopping

Where possible support local shops, traders, and small businesses. This not only supports the local economy but also cuts down on the carbon footprint of your gifts. 

Shopping local, however, does not need to be exclusive to the gifts this also includes the food for the festive season. Buy locally sourced meat (if you eat meat), and locally sourced veg, and if making your own chutney is not your thing, look for local providers. 

Eco Christmas cards

150 million cards are sent at Christmas. Hardly any are recycled making masses of waste for landfill. When buying Christmas cards ensure they are recycled and recyclable. If you receive Christmas cards, please ensure to recycle them to eliminate the amount of waste. Christmas cards are also a good way to support local charities at Christmas by purchasing theirs. 

Wreathes without plastic, wire, floral foam, or imported foliage 

Christmas wreaths are as popular as ever. Unfortunately, many of them are laden with plastic, from the flower foam they sit in and the ribbon decorating them. It is not only the plastic causing problems it is also the florist wire used to attach the foliage, birds can get stuck and injured by it. 

There is good news however, it is possible to make a Christmas wreath with no plastic or wire. Swap the flower foam for moss and the wire for biodegradable string and you will have a wreath that is just as pretty without any of the negative effects for nature.