Did you know that Australians generate a staggering$921 million worth of unwanted gifts destined for landfill every Christmas?

Family, food and celebration is how most of us want to spend Christmas but too often that includes single use items, plastic utensils and decorations, and non-recyclable gift wrapping. 

It is possible, with just a little forethought, to embrace a low waste Christmas that is even more fun and beautiful than you might expect. By being mindful of what you buy and thinking ahead, you can create an eco-friendly Christmas that won't leave waste for years to come.

Together, we can make a difference this festive season. Here are some easy ways to celebrate Christmas sustainably and give with purpose:

1. Give Thoughtfully, Make it Count

Giving thoughtful gifts is a beautiful way to celebrate your loved ones and spread delight. But for some of us, gift-giving can be stressful, especially since we know how much waste can be involved. 

Try these tips for thoughtful giving this festive season:

• Quality over quantity. Buy less gifts, but put more effort into the ones you do buy. Got a big family? Try Secret Santa so that each person only buys for one or two others.

• Give consumables. Not sure what someone will enjoy and don’t want to commit to a ‘permanent’ gift? Give them something that’s easy to use up like loose leaf tea, handcrafted soaps or beeswax candles.

• Write a long letter. If your recipient is more into words of affirmation than gifts, why not write them a lovely long card instead of giving them a physical object?

• Give an experience. Tickets to a show, a voucher for a workshop, or a special day out—memories last longer than most material gifts.

• Buy local, eco and ethical. Gifts from your favourite eco store (wink, wink!) not only delight your loved ones but also support your community and the planet. Check out our Eco Gift Guide for some ideas!

• Go for minimal packaging. Choose gifts that have little packaging, and compostable or reusable packaging where possible. 

2. Wrap Sustainably

Who says gifts have to be wrapped in non-recyclable paper and plastic tape? There are more environmentally friendly options that, in our opinion, look even more beautiful

Use fabric wraps, newspaper, or reusable bags to cut down on waste. Bonus: They look unique and beautiful! 

You can also make your wrapping part of the gift. Experiment using tea towels, scarves, or other fabrics to wrap your presents.

Check out these10 low waste ways to wrap gifts.

3. Decorate Naturally

Isn't it ironic that the symbolic Christmas tree, something entirely natural, is usually made from plastic nowadays? If you're in the market for a new tree, thinking outside the box might lead you to more natural options - even a living tree! 

Here are some other Earth-friendly ways to decorate:

• Decorate your tree with paper chains rather than tinsel

• String up some fabric bunting for your festive parties 

• Use paint and string to transform egg cartons into little bells or mushrooms

• Gather some gum nuts, leaves and seed pods to create ornaments

• Use dried orange slices or cookie-cut dried orange peels to add some colour

• Create a native wreath that will dry beautifully over time

4. BYO Cutlery and Cup to Festive Events

Let the fun go on, without the waste!

• If you're attending an event, go prepared with your own cutlery, water bottle, and keep cup for drinks. A fabric serviette is also a great shout.
• If you’re hosting, why not ask your guests to BYO plate and cutlery? This is also a terrific way to reduce how much clean up you have to do too! 

Alternatively, see if there are any local community initiatives like Community Dishes and Planet Party Kits in your area who allow you to borrow the equipment for your event, then clean and return it afterwards.

If reusable alternatives aren't right for you, there are biodegradable disposable options like palm leaf plates and biodegradable single use cutlery. To keep these out of landfill, put out clearly labelled compost / FOGO bins to help people sort their waste properly.

5. Eat Seasonally and Locally

While you’re eating and making merry, why not support local growers and farms? Shop for your Christmas food at farmers markets and local grocers. Opt for food that’s in season and grown locally – these options have less food miles, are fresher and directly support local businesses.

6. Plan Ahead to Reduce Food Waste

Look up recipes for how to repurpose your Christmas left overs. If you can’t eat it all now, some dishes can be frozen and eaten later. Or share your surplus with neighbours or community members in need. 

If you’re not already composting, think about getting a Bokashi bin for your bench top or putting a compost bin in your garden to help processes food waste from Christmas, and the year ahead! Now’s a great time to start.

Also read:Top Tips to Reduce Food Waste this Christmas 

7. Re-evaluate Your Rituals

Christmas is often a time of rituals and routines – things that we do year in, year out. But if you’re rituals are feeling a little wasteful, or stressful, it’s a good time to re-evaluate and see where there’s opportunity to do things differently. 

Getting to the heart of your rituals – the reasons why you love to do them – can help you let go of the parts that aren’t so enjoyable. Maybe it’s connecting with family or taking time to slow down. Maybe it’s spending quality time with loved ones, or exploring your creative side. Taking time to know what you want out of the festive season can give you direction.

With a little creativity and preparation, a low waste Christmas can be a more connected and meaningful holiday season for you, your family, and the planet. 💚