Christmas is just around the corner! Some have prepared christmas gifts, some are still running around for last-minute Christmas Sale and gift shopping. Whichever situation you’re in, there are always something you can do to contribute to our mother nature. Here are some useful tips compiled from personal past experiences and gazettelive website.
Cards, wrapping and decoration
Decorating christmas tree using blinking lights? Get LED lights which, as well as lasting longer than conventional lights, use 80% less energy.
Reuse your decorations rather than buying new – if you do buy new, buy sturdy ones that will last or have a go at making your own decorations from scrap materials.
Buy recycled wrapping paper and use string or ribbon on parcels, which can be reused, instead of sticky tape.
Wrapping paper is often treated, coloured and sometimes covered in glitter which isn’t easy to recycle – choose cards and wrapping which contain recycled paper.
Send your Christmas greetings by e-card instead of buying Christmas cards.
Food and drink
Avoid items with unnecessary packaging and wrapping or buy stuff you know you can recycle.
Buy drinks – like soft drinks or wine for example – in bigger bottles or containers to cut down on waste.
Avoid paper plates, cups and serviettes that just get thrown away: it might mean more washing up but at least there will be green benefits.
Shopping
Reuse your carrier bags in the supermarket each time you go.
Combine small purchases into the existing carrier bags you’re carrying.
Plan ahead: what to buy, where to get it, and plan how to get those items with minimal travel distance.
After Christmas
Make an effort to put all of your bottles, cans, tins, cardboard and paper in the recycling containers provided by many local councils.
