Christmas has become a time of excess and overspending on the unnecessary. Let’s make Christmas into something more ethical and eco-friendly, whilst focusing on being present and spending quality time with people we love.
This time of year shouldn’t stressful, it should be enjoyed and period of relaxation and quality time after a busy year. And it doesn’t have to be a time of excess waste if we keep it simple, buy thoughtfully, and stay grounded in what Christmas is all about – spending time with loved ones.
DECORATIONS
If you want to buy Christmas decorations, choose ones that are made from eco-friendly materials like glass, wood, metal, fabric or clay. Avoid cheap plastic decorations and ones covered in glitter, which is just tiny plastic particles that end up being spread everywhere.
Look for locally made ones and buy from small businesses. Here’s are selection:
PACKAGING
We see so many beautiful wrapping paper and ribbons going in to our trash each year, do you ever wonder who made them, how they were made and what makes them so shiny? The metallic and glitter contain plastic and a lot of the glossy stuff aren’t recyclable. It’s time we enjoy Christmas without all the environmental impact that comes with it. Here are some reusable wrapping options for you to try this year.
SHOPPING AND LIFESTYLE
Waste starts from our shopping habits, saying no to single-use plastic bags is one of the easiest ways to make a difference. Tip – (1) Keep your shopping bags in your car, (2) fold one and keep it inside your every day handbag and if you still forget one at home, (3) buy a new reusable bag or simply (4) load all your shopping into your trolley without a bag and pack them straight into the boot of your car. You can contribute to reducing the 8 billion metric tonnes of plastic ending up in the ocean each year. Here’s our selection of the best reusable shopping bags that work for the shops and beyond.
GIFT GUIDE
Holidays can be fun and stressful if you’re not sure what to get your loved ones whilst also considering the environmental impact of your purchases. If you’ve been wondering where do you even find gifts that are cool, useful, and sustainable? You’ve come to the right place, we have listed many zero waste stores in South Africa on our Ebook.
Green Christmas is starting to get easier year after year. There are so many unique items that are both affordable and planet friendly. Here something on our list:
