There’s a lot of talk at the moment about how we, as a generation, need to be more environmentally friendly. You can’t do much without hearing about greener options, eco policies, and ways to be kinder to the planet. This is great. There have recently been frightening studies on future prospects of the Earth published, which show how very different things could look in the next 30 years if we don’t start to make some big changes. 

One of the biggest problems is consumerism. We crave convenience. We throw away instead of repairing. We buy cheap and easy instead of thinking about what will last. We’ve gotten into bad habits, and we’re soon to be paying the price. You could argue that we already are. When it comes to this ravaging consumerism, if there’s one time of year which highlights its extravagance more than any other, it’s Christmas.

We buy too much. We cook too much. We waste food, paper, energy, and time. We scarcely think of the plant when we’re buying roll after roll of wrapping paper. So, how do you have a more eco Christmas? What can you do to curb these bad habits, and enjoy a festive break that isn’t as harmful? Let’s take a look. 

Avoid Gift Wrap

Gift wrap is one of the most wasteful things going. Most of it just gets ripped up and thrown away. It’s generally not recyclable, and most recipients don’t even take the time to look at it. If you want to wrap with paper, plain brown paper is a better option, as it is recyclable. Other options include gift bags, which can be reused, and wrapping cloth. You could even wrap gifts in the excess packaging you get in your own online orders. 

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Give Environmentally-Friendly Gifts

How often have you bought a relative a bathroom gift set, full of plastic and packaging, just for the sake of gifting something? Instead, look at the Dynamic Gift eco range for some fantastic, environmentally friendly gifts for your friends and family. These aren’t just more environmentally friendly on Christmas Day. They’ll continue to help the environment as they are used, and could help your loved ones to live a greener life in the future. 

Send E-Cards

Cards are another waste. Few of us actually take the time to read verses or write meaningful messages. Send e-cards instead, or make your own cards from recyclable paper and card. 

Make Gifts

Many gift sets and boxes are absolutely filled with plastic and excess packaging. If you want to send a gift, but don’t have anything in mind, make homemade gifts, which can be meaningful and unique. Homemade sweet treats can be great, just think about how you are wrapping them, and what ingredients you are using. 

Don’t Buy Unnecessary Presents

Do you buy presents for even distant relatives and friends that you haven’t seen for a long time? This is a waste of money and resources. Stop buying gifts for the sake of it. Speak to people that you usually exchange gifts with, and agree to stop. 

Gift Experiences Instead

Experiences can be a great gift, which totally avoids waste. Book tickets for a show or some classes, book your friend a spa day, or a wine tasting experience. 

Make Promises

If you want to stop buying unnecessary gifts, but you still want to make the festive period and make time for your friends and family, why not make some promises instead? Promise to meet up for lunch or a drink over the holidays. Make a firm plan and write it in your diary so you can’t forget if you get busy. You could even promise and commit to meeting up throughout the year. 

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Rent a Tree

Christmas trees and decorations are another massive waste. Artificial trees can be a more environmentally friendly choice, especially if you buy quality so that it lasts for many Christmases to come. 

But, if you prefer a real tree, consider hiring one with roots that you can send back to be replanted when you are done with it. 

Keep A Tree in Your Garden

Alternatively, if you’ve got space in your garden and don’t mind putting a little effort in, buy a real tree with roots and plant it in your garden so that it can keep growing for next year. 

Cut Down On Food and Drink

Food and drink is another massive festive waste. We buy too much, we cook too much, and an awful lot gets thrown away. Try only to buy what you need. You’ll waste much less, and start the new year much healthier and more comfortable in your jeans.