The season of giving and overindulgence also leads to a lot of excess waste. Over the course of the holiday, household waste can rise by as much as 30% above the levels generated at other times of the year.
Dreaming of a greener Christmas
Tinsel and glitter are both made from non-recyclable plastic, which sheds small pieces when disturbed. These particles are transferrable, and often become environmental plastic pollution.
Before plastic was widely available, Christmas decorations came from natural resources, including winter plants such as holly and ivy.
Old traditions like these, which eschew plastic, can serve as inspiration for a more sustainable Yuletide.
Eco-friendly centrepieces
Upcycling instead of recycling helps reduce pressure on waste services and saves the resources they would otherwise use.
Why not repurpose materials? Glass bottles and tins can be decorated with ribbons or card to update their appearance. Glass containers could be used as candle holders or filled with winter foliage or a small string of solar-powered lights.
A festive treat for the senses
Some scents evoke certain seasons or celebrations. Fresh pine, warming cinnamon and nutmeg, and hints of orange are often associated with Christmas.
Place sticks of cinnamon and sprigs of pine around the home for an all-natural, compostable decoration that also leaves a pleasing scent. Orange slices dried on a low heat in the oven can add to the atmosphere.
Combine these with herbs such as rosemary and thyme, attached with twine and pine cones, to create eye-catching place settings for guests.
Is it possible to have an eco-friendly Christmas tree?
Synthetic Xmas trees result in long-lasting plastic waste. Though imitation trees can last for years before being discarded, they will eventually go to landfill once they are no longer usable.
Though biodegradable if disposed of correctly, real trees require deforestation. To reduce the environmental impact, find sustainable growers who responsibly manage land, replace harvested trees, or grow exclusively for Christmas.
The most sustainable Christmas trees are living trees. They continue to grow while potted, and can be replanted once the festive season is over.
Plastic-free baubles
It is relatively easy to find elegant wood, glass, and metal decorations for a plastic-free Christmas tree. Without the option of plastic-free Christmas lights, focus instead on reducing energy usage by hanging solar-powered or LED bulbs.
For unique handcrafted decorations, combine felt, lace, and repurposed fabric scraps to create Christmas robins or mischievous elves. Paper and cardboard can also be cut and coloured to chosen designs or folded using origami.
Before the big day hang natural aromatic decorations on the tree, like dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, to make the most of natural resources.
Wreaths and garlands
These are among the most iconic of seasonal decorations. Before tinsel, garlands of pine, holly, and other winter foliage would decorate homes at Christmas.
These staple decorations still look as classic and welcoming as ever, with branches and cuttings from winter plants. Add a pop of colour with dried orange slices, redberries, or bows made from repurposed ribbon or fabric.
Get in the Christmas spirit by making your own wreaths and garlands. Head out on a winter walk to salvage fallen branches and leaves and find ways to combine them for beautiful decorations. Once Christmas is over, they can go into compost or back where they came from to degrade naturally.
Sustainable Christmas lights
Christmas lights consume a lot of energy and require much plastic to wrap the wires and create decorative casings. However, a few elegant sets of LED Christmas lights can accent focal points in your home, and still offer seasonal cheer and character.
Natural candles to light up the season
Flickering flames on a cold night evoke images of being ensconced in warmth and comfort. Natural wax candles made from soy or beeswax are clean, organic options that can realise that feeling of being snug and sheltered, while also diffusing relaxing and subtle aromas.
Use candles on windowsills in place of strings of Christmas lights for a traditional take. Just remember to extinguish them before bed. Never leave a naked flame unattended.
Sustainable Christmas supplies
With the house decorated, turn your attention to planning a more sustainable Christmas dinner or tracking down those low-waste stocking fillers for the ultimate eco-friendly celebration.
At FOOGO green we want to make sustainable living as convenient as possible. Our sturdy compostable tableware and utensils are perfect for serving up festive dishes, without contributing to the seasonal waste burden.
Our plates, bowls and cutlery are 100% natural, sturdy, durable, and pleasing to the eye. Stock up today to get your supplies in time for Christmas.
If you need to cater for larger get-togethers during the holidays, we also provide biodegradable party packs, to make your catering as waste-free as possible.