Shop Smart
Before shopping for Christmas, make a list of what you actually need to prevent waste. Instead of buying more plastic bags, bring bags for life or tote bags when you hit the shops.
Sustainable gifting
Think about materials of the gifts you buy. Opt for gifts made from wood and paper made from recycled or FSC certified materials and stay away from plastic that can’t be recycled.
Consider organic clothing or pre-loved items from charity shops or sites such as Vinted and eBay, or check out markets for some cute gift ideas from local businesses.
If ordering online, consider where you are ordering from as long-distance transport increases carbon emissions.
Avoid buying unwanted gifts for Secret Santas and instead go for re-gifting. You may have been given something that’s not your style or an item you’ll never use.
Sustainable wrapping
However you wrap your gifts, be mindful of what can be recycled and avoid plastic tape, ribbon and bows. Glitter or foil paper might look cute, but it can’t be recycled so look for FSC-certified paper. For a quirky alternative, use cloth and follow the Japanese technique, furoshiki.
Fabulous Food
Why not try a more plant-based Christmas dinner? From mushroom wellington to curried sweet potato shepherd’s pie, wow your family and friends with a meat free alternative.
Cooking not your thing? Check out the supermarkets who all offer plant-based Christmas alternatives.
Don’t waste any leftover food. Whatever isn’t eaten can be turned into new dishes. What about turkey pie or brussel sprout gratin?
Step away from the clingfilm and store food in Tupperware boxes, stock up on silicone dish covers or opt for foil.
DIY Decorations
Rather than buying new expensive decorations, try your hand at making your own or upcycle old ones. Check out YouTube or Tiktok for DIY ideas or look out for local Christmas craft workshops.
Or, decorate your home with natural beauty. Go for a country walk and collect holly, ivy, mistletoe and pine cones.
Dress to Impress
There’s no need to splash out on a new outfit this year.
Go through your wardrobe and you might just find a LBD you’d forgotten you had or party shoes you haven’t worn yet. Can’t find anything suitable?
Organise a clothes swap with friends; it’s a great way to kick off the festive season, get rid of unwanted clothes and find some new gems.
You could also try Vinted or your local charity shop for some pre-loved party wear.
Travel
Getting home from a night out can be a pain if you can’t get a taxi or can’t afford one.
Make the sustainable choice and take advantage of the late night buses and trains that Translink offer on the run up to Christmas.
If you don’t live close to a route, stay with a friend or arrange a carshare with a non-drinking buddy.
