Who Says Christmas Cannot Be Environmentally Friendly?

Christmas is just around the corner so now is definitely the time to start preparing for the craziest but most joyful time of the year.

It’s not going to come as a surprise to anyone that Christmas is one of the worst times of the year for waste. Wrapping paper, plastic packaging, unwanted presents, clothes, food, drink and decorations all go into the bin and then to landfill or to be burnt. Whilst this is a battle that cannot be won quickly and easily, there are small changes to our lifestyle that we can make as individuals to be more sustainable this Christmas.

We want to help you make that change so have gathered some brilliant tips and eco-friendly ideas for a green Christmas:

• Choose gifts that last. Quality over quantity.
• Shop local. Don’t use the car, travel on foot or bike to your local shops as it reduces greenhouse gas emissions—helping towards a greener future.
• Switch to eco-friendly wrapping paper like brown recycled. Reuse old gift bags and boxes—If you don’t have any start saving them from now.
• Send e-cards or plantable Christmas cards.
• Switch to LED lights. They use up to 80% less energy.
• Re-wear your Christmas jumper.. or crochet jumper!