Simple, Sustainable Ways to Reduce Holiday Waste
With the Holiday around the corner, product overconsumption has begun. According to the latest statistics, Christmas spending has increased by 7 percent, with the average consumer spending $1638 on gifts and entertainment.
As a result, an extra 1 million tons of waste is produced each week from materials such as wrapping paper, boxes, styrofoam and decorations, which eventually end up in landfills due to improper disposal techniques.
If you haven’t watched the Netflix series The Shopping Conspiracy, it’s a powerful eye-opener to how the Western world overshops and then sends the leftover products to 3rd world countries that pile up on their beaches and oceans.
It’s quite disturbing, to say the least, and it’s a problem that is becoming worse every year.
Even more alarming is how many people don't consider the waste they produce. They may recycle, but even that isn’t guaranteed, especially depending on where you live.
Individuals must become more accountable for their holiday habits to create change and promote less waste.
Reuse bows—Every year, I keep my bows and use tape to attach them to presents for the current year.
Fabric wraps—There are more options for fabric bags, which are a great reusable gift option.
Buy experiences—Replace gifts with experiences.
Old Toys—Turn old toys into ornaments; this preserves childhood memories.
Cloth napkins—Use cloth napkins instead of paper, real cutlery and plates for dinner.
Thrift gifts—I always hit the thrift shop and find some awesome name-brand gifts.
Large Corpations—Support small businesses and buy sustainable clothing. Remember, less is best, and quality over quantity.
Let’s remember that the joy of Christmas isn’t in the abundance of stuff but in the meaningful moments we share with loved ones.
By making conscious choices—like reducing gift wrap, opting for thoughtful, low-waste presents, and embracing sustainable traditions—we can create a celebration that’s kind to the planet and more intentional and fulfilling.
