Environmentally Sustainable Xmas

Environmentally Sustainable Ideas for Christmas

Let's reduce our community's ecological 'footprint' by switching to Christmas gifts and activities based on environmentally sustainable products, experiences and activities.

The festive season can lead to overconsumption and waste. According to the Australia Institute, around a quarter of Aussies expect to receive an unwanted gift at Christmas. This translates to roughly $1 billion worth of landfill and a 30% rise in household food waste. That's a lot of landfill!

Decorations

Use LED lights: Switch to energy-efficient LED or solar-powered Christmas lights and use timers to save electricity.
Make your own decorations with the children/grandchildren. Create ornaments from natural materials like pinecones, cinnamon sticks, or dried oranges, or upcycle old decorations.
Avoid plastic and glitter (a significant source of microplastic).Use natural greenery or reusable decorations.

Food and drink

Plan your meals: Create a menu that minimises food waste and plan for creative use of leftovers.
Compost food scraps or set up a worm farm to manage waste.
Shop locally and seasonally to reduce transport emissions.

Avoid single-use items:

Use reusable plates, cutlery, cups, and napkins for your festive meals.

Waste management

Sort your recycling: Set up separate bins for recyclables and general waste during parties to make it easier for guests to dispose of items correctly.
Recycle and reuse: consider reusing or donating unwanted gifts and decorations.
Dispose of e-waste: ensure old electronics are recycled responsibly through local programs.

Sustainable wrapping

Wrap your gifts in recycled or reusable materials.
Brown paper, cloth, or even old newspapers are unique and sustainable wrapping options.
Try "furoshiki’" tape-free wrapping - a traditional Japanese method of using cloth to wrap gifts ( use a tea towel, scarves or a piece of bright second-hand fabric from a charity shop).
Reusable gift bags (fabric gift bags).

Use a living Christmas tree instead of plastic.