Each year, we generate millions of tons of waste from unwanted gifts, excessive packaging, and leftover food that ends up in landfill. This year, let’s rethink our holiday traditions and focus on having an environmentally responsible Christmas. By making mindful choices, we can reduce our impact on the planet while still enjoying the festive season.

Instead of buying unnecessary items that may end up unused or discarded, consider giving meaningful, sustainable gifts. Here are some ideas for environmentally friendly presents that your loved ones will appreciate:

• Seeds or Plants: Gifting seeds or a small potted plant can help encourage others to cultivate their green thumbs and beautify their surroundings. Consider native Australian plants that attract pollinators or herbs that can be grown on a windowsill.
• Experiences Over Things: Instead of a physical gift, give an experience. Tickets to a local botanical garden, a workshop on sustainable gardening, or a guided bushwalk are memorable and have minimal environmental impact.
• Reusable Items: Reusable gifts like water bottles, coffee cups, beeswax wraps, and fabric shopping bags are practical and help reduce single-use plastic waste.
• Handmade or Upcycled Gifts: Homemade jams, pickles, or baked goods are thoughtful gifts that come from the heart. Alternatively, upcycling old items into something new and useful adds a creative touch that makes the present truly unique.
• Donate to a Cause: Make a donation to an environmental charity or plant trees on behalf of the recipient. This can be a powerful way to spread goodwill and make a positive impact on the environment.
• Support Local Artists, Craftworkers, and Writers: They often have modest incomes—by choosing even small items from their work it can make a big difference for them this Christmas.
• For Children: Opt for fun, practical school supplies instead of more toys. Choose unique, colourful stationery, pencil cases, folders, and art supplies that will stand out in the classroom.

Traditional wrapping paper often contains plastic or glitter, which cannot be recycled. Instead, try wrapping gifts with fabric, old newspapers, or even reusable bags. Furoshiki, the Japanese art of fabric wrapping, is a beautiful and sustainable way to present your gifts. You can also use natural decorations, like twine, dried flowers, or eucalyptus leaves, to add a festive touch.

Planning ahead can help reduce food waste during Christmas celebrations. Before you go shopping, take stock of what you already have and create a realistic meal plan to avoid over-purchasing. Get creative with leftovers by turning them into new meals, and consider composting any food scraps. If you have an abundance of food, share it with friends, neighbors, or those in need.

If you love the tradition of having a Christmas tree, opt for a potted native tree that can be planted in the garden after the festive season. Avoid plastic trees, as they are resource-intensive to produce and often end up in landfill after a few years.

Christmas lights can be a significant source of energy consumption. To minimize their impact, use LED lights, which are more energy-efficient, and consider putting them on a timer to reduce electricity usage. Solar-powered lights are also a great option for decorating outdoor spaces.

By making these simple changes, we can all contribute to an environmentally responsible Christmas. This festive season, let’s focus on giving thoughtfully, reducing waste, and celebrating in a way that respects our environment. Together, we can make a positive impact and inspire others to do the same, creating a greener, more sustainable future.

This article appears in the Summer edition of our Members only online magazine, HortInsights. Become a member to receive expert insights into the world of horticulture. Magazines are produced seasonally, and as a member you will have access previous editions. Find a level of membership that suits you HERE.

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