The holiday season is a time of celebration, joy, and togetherness, but it often comes with a lot of excess—extra waste, energy use, and consumption. The good news? With a few small changes, you can keep the magic of Christmas while making it more sustainable. Here are five simple ways to have a greener holiday without sacrificing the joy of the season.
1. Send Digital Christmas Cards
While paper Christmas cards are a festive tradition, they can also be a major source of waste. Millions of cards end up in landfills every year, and many are non-recyclable due to glitter, foil, or plastic coatings. This year, consider switching to digital Christmas cards. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also allow you to personalize your message with photos, videos, and animations. Plus, they arrive instantly—no postal delays to worry about!
2. Choose Thoughtful, Eco-Friendly Gifts
Gift-giving doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. Look for sustainable, thoughtful presents that your loved ones will truly cherish. Consider gifts like handmade crafts, reusable home products, or experiences—think tickets to a show, a cooking class, or a weekend getaway. Experiences often mean more than physical items and create lasting memories. For physical gifts, prioritize items made from recycled or natural materials, and avoid products with excessive plastic packaging.
When it comes to wrapping, ditch the glittery, non-recyclable paper. Use kraft paper, fabric wraps (like Furoshiki), or reusable gift bags for a chic and sustainable touch.
3. Real or Artificial Christmas Tree? Choose Wisely
The age-old debate: real tree or plastic tree? Both options can be sustainable with the right approach.
- Real Trees: If you love the smell of a fresh tree, choose one sourced locally from a responsible farm, where new trees are planted to replace the old ones. After the holidays, recycle it responsibly through composting or tree recycling programs—many communities offer free services.
- Artificial Trees: If you already have an artificial tree, keep using it. The key to sustainability here is longevity—reusing it for a decade or more reduces its environmental impact. If you’re buying a new one, invest in a high-quality tree that will last for years to come.
4. Rethink Your Holiday Decorations
Decking the halls doesn’t have to harm the planet. Skip single-use decorations like plastic tinsel and disposable ornaments, which often end up in landfills. Instead, choose reusable, high-quality decorations made from glass, wood, or natural fibers that will last for years.
If you’re feeling creative, make your own decorations! Dried orange slices, pinecones, and sprigs of greenery make beautiful, compostable decor. For lighting, switch to energy-efficient LED string lights—they use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs and last longer. Bonus: they’ll help lower your electricity bill, too.
5. Minimize Food Waste and Packaging
Food is often at the heart of Christmas celebrations, but it can also be a major source of waste. Plan your meals carefully to avoid overbuying and throwing away leftovers. Get creative with what’s left—turkey sandwiches, soups, and casseroles are great ways to repurpose holiday food.
When shopping, bring reusable bags and choose items with minimal or plastic-free packaging. Support local businesses or farmers’ markets where possible, as this helps reduce the carbon footprint of your holiday feast. Compost any food scraps to ensure nothing goes to waste.
A Greener Holiday Is a Happier Holiday
Sustainability doesn’t mean giving up what makes the season special—it’s about being more intentional and mindful of the choices we make. Whether it’s sending digital cards, rethinking your holiday decor, or finding new ways to avoid waste, small changes can add up to a big impact.
This Christmas, embrace the joy of the season while giving back to the planet. A more sustainable holiday isn’t just better for the earth—it’s a gift to future generations. 🎄