The most sustainable way is not to buy new stuff, avoid creating food waste, prepare only plant-based dishes and not to buy fresh cut trees. But not everyone is ready for all these suggestions. So in this article, I will share a few tips on how to celebrate Christmas sustainably in 2021 by making minor but consequential adjustments.
1. RENOUNCE REAL CHRISTMAS TREE
Let’s start with the Christmas tree. Last year we decided not to cut trees because it feels like wasting precious resources. Trees turn CO2 into oxygen, thus helping reduce the speed with which the atmosphere is warming up. So cutting them down in 2021 doesn’t feel right.
If you feel that you’d like to do things differently this year, you can borrow a tree from a specialized company. Last year, we used ecosapin.ch. You start by selecting the size of the Christmas tree on their website, and you can rent Christmas tree decorations as well. Home delivery and pick up are included in the price. It is more expensive than fresh-cut trees available in front of a grocery store. But since the demand is high, you have to book your tree in October.
This year we decided to buy a fake Christmas tree. Why? First, we moved to a new house with floor heating, and I cannot promise that it will not be too hot for the tree in a pot. Secondly, I grew tired of looking for a tree every year. This way, we have a tree that we can reuse for many years to come. And I think it is more sustainable than being a real tree.
2. FUROSHIKI- SUSTAINABLE GIFT WRAPPING
One of the ways to celebrate Christmas sustainably is to use a piece of fabric to wrap your gifts instead of single-use wrapping paper. As furoshiki became very popular, you can easily find different sizes and prints online (check Etsy and Amazon). I like “knot wraps” from Lush, but it gets a bit pricey if you want to pack 20 presents.
Although we try to follow the reuse, reduce, recycle zero-waste motto as much as possible, one also has to be realistic. Being sustainable is about using what you already have instead of being wasteful.
3. MAKE YOUR OWN CHRISTMAS SWEETS
Baking your Christmas sweets is fun and a great family tradition. I start at the end of November (with Gingerbread cookies and house) and finish right before Christmas day with cookies that don’t have to get soft. Baking your Christmas cookies is also an excellent activity for children.
My aunt and grandmother used to bake at least ten different Christmas sweets. I usually make between 4 and eight. Some are all-time favorites like coconut and butter cookies, so I always make a lot of those.
4. CHRISTMAS DIY FOR KIDS
When I worked 80%, I made a Christmas wreath at home. Last year we made salted dough advent wreaths which turned out great. It was also a great DIY activity for Chloe-Sofia. The salty dough feels like play dough, but it is natural, and you have to bake it so that it lasts. You can also make Christmas wreaths from gingerbread. I saw some lovely photos on Pinterest, and this year, I may try it.
5. BUY CHRISTMAS PRESENTS IN ADVANCE
I like to buy all Christmas presents early because it makes my life less stressful. Usually, by the end of November, I am done, and the only problem that I have is where to hide them. 🙂
Now I would like to hear from you. Did you find my article on celebrating Christmas sustainably in 2021 helpful? And which of my tips did you find the most beneficial? Let me know in the comments below.
