Eco-friendly festivities: Five ways you can have a greener Christmas this year

We’re just hours away from the big day now, and while mulled wine is pouring and the pigs in blanket supply is already being worked through, it’s especially important to consider our impact on the environment throughout the festive period.

Whether that’s swapping out a roast chicken for a nut roast or making sure we recycle used wrapping paper—here’s our rundown of five small ways you can make your Christmas a little bit greener this year…

1. Go plant-based 

When you think of Christmas, the first few things that come to mind are presents, mince pies and, of course, a good old-fashioned Christmas roast. But there are now heaps of cracking meat alternatives and substitutes out there that would pair perfectly with some hearty gravy and all the trimmings to make dinner just as delicious.

Whether you cut meat out totally or just make a few tweaks, you’ll be making a difference. Who knows, it may even spark a New Year’s resolution!

2. Recycle your wrapping

Opening presents is lovely and we can all agree on that. However, heaps of single-use wrapping paper go to waste each year. So, this year, make a change and get creative with recycling, reusing and refashioning old wrapping paper for a multitude of new purposes.

Whether you salvage the big pieces and save them for next year or whack them into a craft draw to be used for a rainy day—this small effort can make a big change and could even save you some money in the future.

3. Save energy on lighting

Fairy lights and Christmas go hand-in-hand, we’re the first to admit that. However, all that extra electricity can put a huge strain on the environment.

So, when you leave your home or go to bed, get into the habit of turning all your Christmas lights off by the mains. Doing this will not only conserve energy and benefit the planet but it will also lower your electricity bill—win, win, win!

4. Regift or donate

Received a present that isn’t really you? Why not use the opportunity to regift to someone else in your life who you know would definitely get some use out of it—saving you a few coins whilst making someone else happy at the same time?

Alternatively, why not donate the present to a local charity where it can help raise funds for a social mission? Most charity shops accept gifts and organisations can distribute donations to the people who need it most.

5. Recycle your Christmas tree

After the holidays have come to an end and it’s time to free up some space in your home again, be sure to track down the nearest spot where you can recycle your Christmas tree.

Live trees are super useful for composting and even if you have an artificial tree, and don’t fancy keeping it on for next year, these can also be recycled as they are commonly made from twisted metal. Find your local recycling centres and end the Christmas season the right way.