10 tips for a greener Christmas

The path to achieving Net Zero can be daunting. It also seems pricey, but your Net Zero path does not have to happen overnight; it is like building a house, each brick strong and supporting the next one.

Net Zero can start small and every step on the way is a step in the right direction. There is often this idea that Net Zero costs money, yes and no. The initial investment is usually higher than going for the cheaper option, but it’s often a more durable one that helps us save money in the long run - for instance, I bought a reusable bottle of water in 2017, and I have not bought any new one since, saving me hundreds of pounds.

Being greener and better for Christmas is one brick in our Net Zero wall. Spending a lot of money and waking up broke on the 26 are common experiences during the holiday season.

So what can we do to be more planet-friendly and cheaper?

Here are some easy tips can we (I include myself too) put into practice to be a little better this Christmas:

1) Buy less

Although it may seem counterproductive to cut back on Christmas purchases, we frequently do so in order to acquire new, useless items. So why not take a step back and consider other options for gifts? Simplifying the "gift-go-round," purchasing locally made presents, or deciding to only accept used gifts are some possible solutions.

2) Are gifts to be brand new?

Ok, ok, hear me out. We all like to get the latest gadget in its plastic packaging and the tag attached, but there are a lot of options from charity and second-hand shops to get good items, for a cheaper price. Sometimes, they even have the original packaging and tag attached!

3) Reusable packaging makes a difference

Reusable cloth or bags to wrap gifts can be found on sale in many shops around the country. For the craftiest, you can make your own using whatever textile you have. They are super original and durable. It gets really fun when everyone in your family/group of friends/church does it, so you can switch packagings.

4) Find a Christmas jumper exchange to expand (or decrease) your collection

Who does not like Christmas jumpers? And it’s nice to have a different one each year, maybe even for each occasion. But Christmas jumpers have a limited use, so what can we do? There are always the options to donate or sell old ones, and check options in charity shops, or you can find (or even organise) a Christmas jumper exchange, which is a great way to get your neighbourhood and community involved.

5) Rummage in charity shops for your Christmas outfit

The glitz, glamour and one-time use of the majority of Christmas attire make it both exciting and intimidating. Who does not have a sequined outfit that is gathering dust?

As for Christmas jumpers, great options are donating or selling old outfits to make space for new ones. Charity and second-hand shops have an increasing number of good clothes to offer. Don’t miss out on original pieces!

6) Don’t throw away what you got!

It is tempting to get rid of our plastic trees, Christmas lights and old ornaments for more sustainable options, but it is not sustainable. Keep them and start replacing them with more sustainable options when they are broken.

7) Choose an eco-friendly wreath

When purchasing a Christmas wreath, the best way to ensure sustainability is to enquire about the wood's origin and confirm that all other materials are plastic-free and environmentally friendly.

An even better option is to make it yourself, a great activity between friends and family!

8) Try eco-friendly crackers

There are many options nowadays for original and eco-friendly crackers. Why not check it out and try them?

For the crafty ones, you can even have a go at creating reusable crackers.

9) Get ethical chocolate

Chocolate is delicious, but it can also be quite problematic. Check where it comes from and pick ethical chocolate whenever possible.

If you're feeling fancy, try making mendiants, which make a beautiful and sophisticated gift. There are also fairly simple recipes for making your own chocolate bars.

10) Make homemade cards

In addition to being costly, Christmas cards can have a negative environmental impact. Why not create your own cards?

Although homemade cards are more intimate and equally valued, they might not be as polished. In the weeks leading up to Christmas, friends, youth groups or families can enjoy making the cards.

But, most of all, have a great Christmas!