Christmas is just around the corner and preparations for the big day are already in full swing! But, while it is the most wonderful time of the year, it isn’t the eco-friendliest period! Make it a goal this year to have your most sustainable Christmas yet – use natural decorations, shop smart or source a sustainable Christmas lunch… There are so many ways! 

Choose a REAL Christmas tree 
We know that plastic Christmas trees at your local Costco or Target have an attractive price tag and sure, you could keep reusing the same tree for many years over but what happens at the end of it’s life? If you have a plastic one already, keep using it and look after well to make sure it’s well and truly used before moving on. If you need a new tree though, buy a real tree that can be recycled or better yet, see if you can rent a tree from your local nursery, this way the tree be replanted and keep on living after Christmas!  

Eco-friendly Christmas Cards 
Up to 1.5 billion cards get sent straight to the trash after festive season. When you choose your cards to send, make sure you find biodegradable options because some of these cards won’t completely decompose because they might contain plastic foils or plastic glitter. If you want to take it a step further, find some that are sustainably sourced or made from recycled paper. You always have the option of reusing last year’s cards or making your own – turn it into a Christmas activity with your kids. You can ditch physical cards entirely and go digital with emails and e-cards!  

Natural decorations  
Opt-out of the glitter and the tinsel and the twinkly lights instead you can decorate for Christmas with natural foliage, such as pinecones, berries, your imagination will be the limit! There are plenty of blogs online that encourage natural decorations and teach you must make them. However, if you are planning on buying decorations, aim to buy second-hand or from materials such as recycled wood, fabric or glass. Find decorations that are timeless, instead of the latest trendy piece, so you can use them for years to come!  

Take reusable bags with you Christmas shopping 
You’re probably going to make multiple trips to buy more than you’re supposed to this Christmas so reduce your plastic consumption by bringing along reusable bags. It might just feel like one plastic bag the first trip but after multiple trips needing multiple bags, the plastic will build up. Being prepared when shopping will save the environment from extra increased landfill.  

Avoid disposables when hosting 
Everyone hates doing the dishes and it’s even worse when you must do the dishes for a large group! But the single use plates, knives, spoons, and forks will just build up in landfill after your party so help leave your conscience clear by washing up what you already have. If you don’t have enough crockery and cutlery for everyone, ask them to bring their own set along! I’m sure your guests join you in washing dishes this festive season so it won’t feel like a chore.  

Make sure your Christmas lights are LED  
Switch out your incandescent lights for LED lights. It’ll reduce the amount of power and energy you use by at least 95%. Huge energy saving meaning you can spend less on your energy bill for the month. Your outdoor lights can also be switched for the Solar LED version.