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12 Ways to Curate an Eco-conscious Christmas.




As Christmas fast approaches, we’re all gearing up for celebrations, feasts, and gift-giving. But did you know that a traditional chocolate advent calendar contains 38 times more packaging per gram than a regular chocolate bar, with 12 times as much plastic? Or that the carbon emissions from our UK Christmas dinners amount to the same as driving 150 million miles? These statistics are sobering, but they also offer a chance to rethink how we celebrate—without sacrificing the joy and spirit of the season.


While we’re not here to tell you to skip the holiday fun, we do want to encourage a more mindful approach to the season. Celebrating sustainably doesn’t mean abandoning tradition or skipping the fun. Instead, it’s about finding creative, thoughtful ways to reduce waste, support local communities, and give gifts that keep on giving—without compromising on the magic of Christmas.


Here are a few ideas that we believe, will help you to embrace a more conscious Christmas.


1. Go Green with Your Christmas Tree

A potted living tree is a beautiful and sustainable alternative to the traditional cut tree. After Christmas, you can plant it in your garden, or, if you don’t have the space, check with your local council about recycling services. If you prefer a fake tree, consider buying secondhand—there’s no reason to keep contributing to the demand for new ones.





2. Choose Energy-Efficient Christmas Lights

Switching to LED lights is a small change that can make a big impact. These lights use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last longer too. To minimise their environmental impact even further, make sure they are switched off when not in use.


3. Create Lasting Memories, Not Waste

Experiences are great gift, instead of physical presents, consider giving vouchers for activities like a local workshop, fun experience, or tickets to a show. Not only will you create lasting memories, but you'll also help reduce the waste that comes from packaging and excess. Local experiences—like a wreath-making class or an art workshop—are also a fantastic way to support small businesses and discover something new on your doorstep.


4. Shop Secondhand

Charity shops and secondhand stores are treasure troves of unique and often one-of-a-kind gifts. By shopping secondhand, you’re not only avoiding the mass-produced, but you’re also giving back to a good cause.





5. Plastic-Free Gifts

The festive season sees a surge in plastic production, contributing an extra 104,000 tonnes of plastic waste—much of which ends up in landfills. To make your gifts more sustainable, consider alternatives like fabric or newspaper for wrapping. If you're giving out advent calendars, there are plenty of reusable ones out there that you can fill with whatever you like.


6. DIY Gifts and Decor

Tap into your creativity this Christmas by making your own gifts, wreaths, and decorations. Not only does this add a personal touch, but it’s also a great way to reduce waste and create something meaningful. A hands-on approach always adds an extra layer of love.




7. Give Your Time, Not Just Presents

One of the most meaningful gifts you can give this holiday season is your time. Whether it’s volunteering at a food bank, helping wrap gifts for a local charity, or offering a listening ear to a lonely neighbour, small acts of kindness can make a huge difference in your community. The true spirit of Christmas lies in giving, in ways that go beyond material gifts.


8. Create Personalised Vouchers

Personalised gift vouchers are an affordable and thoughtful way to show someone you care. Offer to cook dinner, babysit, walk their dog, or help with a project they’ve been putting off. These bespoke gifts not only express your affection, but they also reduce waste and keep spending to a minimum.


9. Celebrate Togetherness

The holiday season is about connection, not consumption. Rather than focusing on the number or cost of gifts, why not spend time with loved ones on shared activities that don’t come with a price tag? Decorate the tree together, bake Christmas treats, or host a cozy game night. These simple joys can be just as meaningful—and often more memorable—than the most expensive present.





10. Send Digital Christmas Cards

Did you know that in the UK, we send enough Christmas cards each year to cover the world’s circumference 500 times? This year, why not send digital cards instead? They’re free, customisable, and environmentally friendly. Plus, they can be tailored to each recipient’s personality, making your greetings just as heartfelt as a physical card.


11. Plant-Based Festive Feasts

Eating more plant-based foods during the holidays is a fantastic way to reduce your carbon footprint and embrace a healthier diet. Many plant-based options are just as festive and delicious as traditional meat dishes, and you can support local farmers by choosing seasonal produce. Not only will your plate be more sustainable, but your holiday meals will also be kinder to the planet.


12. Reduce Food Waste

Food waste spikes during the holidays, but with a little planning, you can minimize it. Be realistic with your shopping list, and get creative with leftovers. From repurposing festive dinners into soups or stews to making sure food scraps are composted, there are plenty of ways to reduce your impact. Check out our article on leftover recipes for some tasty inspiration.


This Christmas, let’s celebrate with a little more care for the world around us. By being mindful of how we give, consume, and enjoy the season, we can make the holidays more meaningful—and make a positive impact on our planet at the same time. Happy holidays, in every sense of the word!

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