# Tips for a Greener and Eco-Friendlier Christmas

- Link: https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/01/tips-for-a-greener-and-eco-friendlier-christmas/
- Published: 2023-01-23T09:20:39-05:00
- Author: Eillin Delapaz

![Christmas used to be a highly religious holiday that celebrated love, unity and
gratefulness. However, it seems that today, all we think about is wasteful decorations.](
https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Tips-for-a-Greener-
and-Eco-Friendlier-Christmas.jpg?resize=600%2C900&quality=52&ssl=1)

Christmas used to be a highly religious holiday that celebrated love, unity and 
gratefulness. However, it seems that today, all we think about is wasteful [decorations](https://greenlivingguy.com/2022/01/staying-sustainable-post-holidays/).
Also expensive presents and too much food. It’s also true that contemporary Christmas
is quite wasteful. Especially when it comes to money and electricity. Also resources
and food. However, you can turn that around. With a few small changes, you can green
up your [Christmas](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/11/green-grand-prize-winner-ryan-arnold-is-announced-at-ecovers-30-under-30-celebration/)
and have a wonderful celebration without guilt.

## Get a live tree

![](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Get-a-live-tree.
jpeg?resize=600%2C400&quality=52&ssl=1)

Artificial Christmas trees might be practical, but they mostly end up in landfill
after two or three years, causing a lot of waste and pollution. On the other hand,
live trees are 100% renewable when grown on farms. As they grow, they fill the air
with fresh oxygen, and after the holidays, they can get recycled into mulch. Also,
most are locally grown and locally sold, so there are no huge transport wastes. 
A [properly potted tree](https://www.patchplants.com/gb/en/read/plant-care/complete-guide-to-potted-christmas-tree-care/)
can be reused for a few years without having to repot it, and after it gets too 
big, simply move it outside and have yourself a new tree in your yard.

## Be mindful when packaging

Christmas can be celebrated without presents, but it’s just not the same because
unwrapping [gifts](https://greenlivingguy.com/2017/12/creative-gift-book-ideas-for-the-holidays/)
is the best part of the entire holiday. However, you don’t have to produce a ton
of trash in order to celebrate this tradition. When packaging your presents, opt
for [recycled packing paper](https://greenlivingguy.com/2019/11/4-reasons-why-recycling-of-paper-is-good-for-the-planet/)
and natural ribbons so your entire wrapping ensemble can end up in recycling or 
composting. Or if you’re very careful with unwrapping and storing, you can reuse
the paper and the bags, thus [saving resources and money](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/12/tenant-star-could-save-landlords-and-tenants-money/).
Sometimes, if you have a beautiful gift bag, you don’t even need to wrap it additionally
because it will already be hidden from view. Plus, it’s much easier for your recipients
to reuse bags than wrapping paper.

## Rethink the contents of the presents

![](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Rethink-the-
contents-of-the-presents.jpeg?resize=600%2C400&quality=52&ssl=1)

There are many ways you can be more sustainable with Christmas presents. Firstly,
watch out for what you’re getting and aim for quality over quantity. Probably the
best way to green up your [Christmas](https://greenlivingguy.com/2011/04/green-cab-ride-an-eco-friendly-experience/)
is to gift someone with experiences and memories. For instance, you can grab a voucher
for a [family photography](https://www.verveportraits.com.au/) session and surprise
your loved ones with a gift of immortalized moments. Professional photographers 
will create a fantastic atmosphere, capture every [family](https://greenlivingguy.com/2020/11/various-ways-to-care-for-your-family/)
member’s character and provide you with lifelong memories.

## Buy from independent shops

If you’ve decided to get physical gifts and toys, try to support your local economy
and small, independent manufacturers with your purchases. Visit your local [Christmas](https://greenlivingguy.com/2014/03/nicks-organic-farm-a-local-treasure-at-risk/)
market and opt for handmade toys and organic locally-produced foodie gifts. This
will keep the money in the local economy, encourage a more mindful approach to spending
and actually help put food on the producers’ tables. And it goes without [saying that products from small](https://greenlivingguy.com/2005/05/global-warming-change-a-small-few-non-believers-say-no/)
manufacturers are usually more organic, handmade and higher in quality.

## Be moderate with food

![](https://i0.wp.com/greenlivingguy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Be-moderate-
with-food.jpg?resize=600%2C400&quality=52&ssl=1)

The Christmas feast is something truly special, but this year, try to both reduce
the amount of food and focus more on plant-based dishes. Do you really need a whole
turkey for a family of four? Look online how much food you need for the number of
guests you’re having and stick to it. This will reduce waste and save you money.
When it comes to sides, focus on homemade vegan options like crispy potatoes, roasted
carrots and charred Brussels sprouts. Maybe skip the ham this year if you have enough
of everything else. Whatever you have left, make sure to pack for your guests or
eat tomorrow. 

## Turn off the lights at bedtime

One of the best things about the winter holidays is all the sparkly decorations 
and fairy lights. However, when you cover your house in yards and yards of string
lights, your energy bill can definitely feel it. To prevent unnecessary electricity
waste, turn off the lights after you’ve gone to bed. Of course, make sure to switch
from traditional holiday [bulbs to LEDs](https://greenlivingguy.com/2016/10/cree-led-bulb-offers-new-better-line/)
that use more than 90% less energy. These might not have that nostalgic vintage 
feel, but the [savings will be worth](https://greenlivingguy.com/2010/05/ev-cost-savings-are-they-worth-it/)
it.

With these eco-friendly tips, your Christmas will be merrier than ever. That’s because
you’ll know that you’re doing your [part in saving the environment](https://greenlivingguy.com/2023/06/saving-money-and-the-environment-the-advantages-of-used-auto-parts/).
Plus, you might be creating a new healthy tradition for your family, who knows!

**Author: Diana Smith**