The holidays are a time for joy, connection, and yes—sometimes overindulgence. But what if we could enjoy all the festive cheer while keeping the planet in mind?
Being eco-conscious during the holiday season doesn’t mean giving up on traditions or fun. Instead, it’s about making small, thoughtful changes that add up.
Here are six practical tips to reduce your holiday footprint, with alternative options rated by difficulty to help you choose what works best for your family.
6 tips for an eco-friendlier holiday season
1. Gift mindfully
Difficulty: Easy
Consider gifts that are meaningful and sustainable. Opt for experiences like museum memberships, cooking classes, or charitable donations in someone’s name. If you’re shopping for physical items, prioritize locally made, durable, and eco-friendly options.
Alternative option (Moderate):
Thrift stores are treasure troves for unique, second-hand gifts that are often brand new or in excellent condition.
From vintage jewelry to high-quality kitchenware, you can find thoughtful, one-of-a-kind presents without the environmental cost of buying new.
Feeling creative? Upcycle your thrift finds! For example, you could repaint a second-hand picture frame and pair it with a cherished family photo for a personalized touch.
Alternative option (Moderate):
Try DIY gifts like homemade candles, bath salts, or baked goods. They’re heartfelt, fun to make, and reduce packaging waste.
2. Wrap it right
Difficulty: Easy
Traditional wrapping paper often ends up in landfills, but you can switch to recyclable kraft paper or even cloth wrapping (furoshiki style). Both options are stylish and sustainable!
Alternative option (Moderate):
Reuse what you already have—newspaper, maps, or old fabric scraps can make charming and unique wrappings. Bonus points if you decorate them with natural elements like pinecones or dried orange slices.
3. Reimagine holiday decorations
Difficulty: Moderate
Skip the plastic and opt for natural decorations. Think garlands made from dried fruit or popcorn, reusable LED string lights, and thrifted or second-hand ornaments.
Alternative option (Challenging):
Get creative with homemade decorations! Craft with your kids using items like paper, salt dough, or pinecones gathered from the yard. It's a great way to bond while reducing your reliance on store-bought décor.
4. Green your holiday meals
Difficulty: Easy
The holidays are a feast for the senses, but food waste and carbon-heavy menus can add up. Consider incorporating more plant-based dishes into your holiday spread—they're not just eco-friendly but delicious too!
Alternative option (Moderate):
Plan your meals carefully to avoid over-preparing. Use leftovers creatively, like turning roasted veggies into soups or turkey into sandwiches.
5. Travel smarter
Difficulty: Challenging
Holiday travel can have a significant carbon impact. If possible, opt for local destinations or carpool with family and friends. For longer trips, consider trains over planes to reduce emissions.
Alternative option (Easy):
Offset your travel carbon footprint by donating to reputable programs that plant trees or fund renewable energy projects.
6. Shop local and support small businesses
Difficulty: Easy
Whether it’s gifts, food, or decorations, buying from local makers and businesses reduces the carbon footprint of shipping and supports your community.
Alternative option (Moderate):
Make a holiday resolution to buy less overall. By focusing on fewer, higher-quality items, you reduce waste and simplify the season.
Petites pensées
The holidays are about love, gratitude, and togetherness—values that align perfectly with caring for our planet.
By making even small changes, you can enjoy a magical, less-polluting season without feeling overwhelmed or guilty. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about being mindful.
Let’s celebrate joyfully while giving back to the Earth, one thoughtful choice at a time.