From the gifts we buy, to the way we wrap them, and how we choose to decorate our homes, opting for less wasteful, or disposable choices over Christmas means casting a vote for a more sustainable future.
All small changes over the festive period can all add up to make a world of difference.
It is estimated that each year, us Britons throw away enough wrapping paper to circle the globe 9 times! Imagine the impact we could all make if, together, we took small steps to reduce our waste at Christmas time.
- Go for gift bags
Gift bags are a great alternative to wrapping paper and can easily be re-used and re-purposed time and time again.
You could also try giving plain paper shopping bags a Christmas makeover by decorating them with stamps and pens.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle
Got a friend who loves fashion, a nephew who likes comics, or a spouse who enjoys sports?
Why not try adding a little personal flair to your gifts this year and re-use an old magazine, comic book or newspaper to wrap up your presents.
This recyclable gift wrapping is a great way to save some money as well as use up old paper you would have otherwise thrown away.
Just remember to double-check the headlines so you don’t send the wrong message!
- Stockings
Forget wrapping paper altogether, and start using a good old fashioned stocking!
There is nothing more exciting than a filled stocking at the end of the bed or under the Christmas tree.
A personalised stocking for each member of the family will last for years and becomes a lovely memory for years to come.
- Brown paper packages tied up with string
Ditch the Sellotape (other adhesive brands are available) this year and opt for a string to tie up those loose paper ends.
Not only will this eco-friendly gift wrapping give your presents a classic look, but it will mean you can re-use your wrapping paper without it getting torn and ruined.
Top Tip: Using your string, tie a small branch from your Christmas tree or cinnamon stick to make your gifts extra festive.
- Use FSC or PEFC approved wrapping paper
If you do opt for wrapping paper, looking for the FSC or PEFC logos is a great way to be sure that the paper comes from responsible sources.
These logos guarantee that the labelled wood or paper doesn't come from illegal logging or damaging forestry practices.
