The holiday season brings joy but also a significant increase in waste. U.S. household garbage rises by 25% from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, resulting in an additional 1 million tons of waste. As the holiday season approaches, it’s a great time to integrate waste reduction into your celebrations.
Prioritize experiences like outdoor adventures, concert tickets, or cooking classes to create lasting memories instead of adding to material clutter. Choose gifts from local artisans, small shops, and pop-up markets. Consolidate online purchases and choose retailers with minimal or eco-friendly packaging to make environmentally conscious choices.
Opt for high-quality, practical gifts that last longer, reducing waste and the need for replacements. Find unique gifts at thrift stores and vintage shops, supporting sustainability while offering one-of-a-kind items. Use LED lights for decorations to save energy and enjoy a longer lifespan.
Choose cloth bags or fabric wraps over non-recyclable wrapping paper. Create your own wrapping paper from old maps, sheet music, or children’s artwork for a personal touch. Set up a composting station for food scraps and use reusable dinnerware and cloth napkins.
Store leftovers in reusable containers to minimize plastic waste.
Reducing waste this holiday season
Instead of cutting down a tree, consider getting a potted Christmas tree that you can plant after the holidays.
Alternatively, be sure to recycle your Christmas tree at the end of the season. Although artificial trees are usually made from PVC or other plastics, using the same tree year after year is more sustainable than buying a new one annually. There are also artificial trees made from recycled PVC for a more environmentally friendly option.
Reuse decorations you already have and recycle items instead of sending them to landfills. Focus on creating memories and experiences that form cherished traditions. JMU ISAT professor Maria Papadakis encourages a more thoughtful approach to traditional festivities.
She suggests reducing food waste by preparing only what will be enjoyed and finding joy in leftovers. Buying from local grocery stores supports small businesses and reduces environmental impacts from transportation. Papadakis recommends useful items that cater to the recipient’s needs or hobbies, secondhand or thrifted gifts, and experiences or consumables as sustainable gift choices.
She reminds us not to feel guilty about buying something new when it’s thoughtful and needed. “Sustainable consumption is about more than just the environmental impact – it’s about asking why we’re buying something and finding joy in it. When we connect our purchases to our values and make them meaningful, we’re creating a deeper, more satisfying experience that goes beyond simply saving the environment,” said Papadakis.
By incorporating these sustainable practices, you can enjoy the holiday season while also contributing to a healthier planet.
