It’s the season of excess and it’s easy to get lost in the glam of it all. Let’s admit it. During this period, more than in any time of the year, we tend to overindulge and overspend (sometimes without even meaning to, or so we tell ourselves). Albeit this year, we might have already taken a step back as for most of us, 2020 has not been so kind to our pockets.
One thing is for certain though. Every choice and purchase that we make has an impact on our environment. If we had to make small adjustments to our spending habits, we would diminish our carbon footprint in the long run. Being responsible for our natural resources will also help ensure a better life for our future generations. So, why not avoid leaving your resolutions to the new year and make it a holiday resolution instead?
As soon as Halloween is done and dusted, we roll up our sleeves and get working on the Christmas gift list. Getting started early eases the way towards better and wiser spending decisions. It allows you enough time to also think about the environment. I’m pretty positive that if you’re rushing through the gift list, the environment would be the last thing on your mind.
Also, have you ever noticed how just one shopping spree can fill half of your recycling bag with the extra, double packaging alone? The alternative is too much of a hassle, you might think. Zero waste? How is that even possible? It’s true that the consumerist environment we have been immersed into doesn’t help on this account. But, at the very least, start small. Start by going for something light in packaging or sustainable in itself ↡ ↡ ↡
I realise that most of the times, it’s more convenient to just go with whatever. The “U iva, issa mhux għar-recycling” mentality usually kicks in. What you might not realise is how in the EU member states, 40% of plastic production is for packaging and only 30% of plastic gets recycled. The rest is either incinerated, ends up in landfills or litters the sea. So, whilst recycling may be one of the solutions to tackling plastic litter, in reality, according to the EU Parliament, only less than a third of plastic waste in Europe is recycled.
Try thinking about this whilst your eyes are scanning the shelves or online stores for stocking fillers and Secret Santa gifts. Say your eyes rest on scented candles. Choose the one with less packaging. Avoid purchasing the one moulded in a plastic container, nestled in a cardboard box wrapped in more plastic. Or better yet, choose natural, reusable gifts or ones that are made from recycled sources.
Another idea is to look for locally made or grown gifts. Ordering something from halfway around the world comes with an added cost. Transportation contributes to greenhouse emissions and keeping it local is much greener. This way, you’d also be eliminating single-use outer packaging.
Not all gifts have to necessarily be store-bought. Gift giving is a gesture of thoughtfulness. I’m sure your loved ones will appreciate the time and effort you put in making something yourself. Having something homemade is considered a luxury these days.
Sustainable gift giving is not only about making better gift choices per se, but rather, transforming the whole experience surrounding it. There are several ways to cut down ways and have a greener Christmas without being a Scrooge. All you need is a little imagination and think things through.
By now, I’m also sure you are aware that wrapping paper is not eco-friendly. Most of the wrapping paper we buy contains glitter and synthetic inks which are not recyclable. Opt for other alternatives like brown paper, paper tape and twine. Try using newspapers, old posters or scarves (double the gift) to artfully wrap your gifts.
Think a little more about the environment while crossing out gifts on your Christmas list. The best gift you can give the environment (and ultimately, yourself), is to have a more sustainable Christmas this year. With a little effort and a touch of creativity, you can be kinder to our planet this holiday season. Let’s not forget what really matters!
Happy holidays and stay safe!
Amanda x
Amanda Lia 