Eco-Friendly Christmas Ideas
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Quick answer: Eco-Friendly Christmas Ideas. This guide gives 18 ideas in 4 sections: Wrapping with less waste; Decorations that last; Greener gifts; Food and the table. Budget: Many ideas save money. Best for: Anyone wanting a greener Christmas.
- Time: A few small swaps
- Budget: Many ideas save money
- Best for: Anyone wanting a greener Christmas
On Boxing Day morning, the living room often looks like a paper snowstorm. Bags of wrapping, cracker packaging, broken ribbon and the odd plastic toy lid are all swept into the bin in about ten minutes.
A greener Christmas does not mean a plain one. Small swaps, made once, can be used year after year, and many cost less than the usual version. This guide covers wrapping, decorations, gifts and food, with easy ideas that suit busy families.
Top tip: Do not throw away what you already own. The most eco-friendly decoration, bag or box is the one already in your cupboard, so use it up before buying anything new.
Wrapping with less waste
Wrapping is one of the easiest places to make a change, and it can look lovely.
- Brown paper: Plain recycled paper can go in the paper recycling. Dress it up with string, sprigs of rosemary or a stamp.
- Fabric wraps: Squares of cotton or a tea towel make reusable gift wrap. Ask the recipient to pass it on after.
- Paper tape: Choose paper tape instead of plastic sticky tape. It is easier to recycle and pretty enough to leave visible.
- Reusable gift bags: Sturdy bags last for many years. Write a name on the bag lining to keep track.
- Natural tags: Tags made from card and string are easy to recycle. Reuse last year cards cut into shapes for free tags.
Decorations that last
Choose things you will love for many Christmases, rather than one season.
- Wooden ornaments: Simple wooden decorations last for decades. Store them in a labelled box to protect them.
- Fabric bunting: Felt and cotton bunting can be folded away safely each year and looks cosy in any room.
- Dried orange slices: Slice oranges thinly and bake them slowly with an adult. Thread onto string for a pretty, natural garland.
- Rechargeable lights: LED lights use less energy, and some are solar-powered. Check they are suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
- Potted tree: A small living tree in a pot can be kept outside and used each year, if cared for. Water it regularly and keep it in a cool spot.
Greener gifts
The most thoughtful gifts are often the most sustainable.
- Preloved finds: Books, games and toys in good condition can be bought second hand and wrapped as new. Check safety labels and complete sets.
- Reusable bottle: A sturdy bottle gets used every day and replaces single-use plastic.
- Beeswax wraps: Washable food wraps are a useful kitchen gift. Follow the care instructions.
- Plantable cards: Cards with seeds can be planted after reading. Choose wildflower mixes and check care instructions.
- Experiences: A trip to the cinema or a class has no packaging at all. Wrap a small related item.
Food and the table
- Cloth napkins: Washable napkins look smarter than paper ones and last for years.
- Food storage tubs: Leftover containers cut down on waste. Label them with the date.
- Reusable crackers: Refillable crackers can be filled with your own little gifts and used again.
Helpful links and further reading
A few trusted places to find out more.
- Recycle Now: Find out what you can recycle and where, including wrapping and cards.
- WRAP: An environmental charity with ideas for cutting waste and food waste.
Frequently asked questions
Can I recycle wrapping paper?
Plain paper without glitter or plastic can often be recycled. A quick scrunch test helps: if it stays scrunched, it is usually paper.
Is a real or artificial tree greener?
It depends on how long you use them. An artificial tree used for many years or a potted tree can be a good choice.
How can I start small?
Pick one swap this year, such as reusable wrapping or fabric napkins, and add more next Christmas.
More ideas you might like
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