10 Ways To Practice Sustainability During The Holidays
Practicing sustainability nearly feels impossible to do over the holiday season with it being such a busy time of the year, but UW Sustainability has provided us with ten suggestions to help! We encourage you to choose one or two actions from each category below.
Shopping & Buying Gifts
When it comes to gifts, choosing items that have a lasting impact can make all the difference. Look for presents that are reusable, durable, or recyclable. For example, a sturdy water bottle or a timeless piece of decor can be appreciated for years to come.
Homemade gifts add a heartfelt touch to the season. Consider baking a loaf of bread, creating a mix of your favorite cookies, or making jars of homemade jam. If you’re crafty, knit a scarf, crochet mittens, or design a unique piece of jewelry. These gifts not only reduce waste but also carry a special, personal sentiment.
Want to embrace a quirky and sustainable tradition? Host a “re-gift” swap with friends or family members. It’s a fun way to find new homes for items you no longer need while discovering hidden treasures from others. And remember: when shopping, bring your own reusable tote bags to avoid single-use plastics.
Creative Wrapping Ideas
Make the wrapping as special as the gift itself by thinking outside the box—literally! Instead of traditional wrapping paper, consider using items that can double as part of the present. A mixing bowl filled with kitchen essentials or a cozy blanket wrapped around baby items makes for a thoughtful and zero-waste presentation.
For a personal touch, you can get creative with alternative materials like old maps for travel lovers or colorful comics for kids. If you enjoy sewing or embroidery, decorate a reusable cloth bag or pillowcase to house your gift. These options are not only eco-friendly but also give your gifts a unique and memorable appearance.
If you’re ordering gifts online, ask companies to use paper-based packaging instead of styrofoam peanuts. And if you end up with packing peanuts, bring them to a shipping store for reuse rather than tossing them out.
Eco-Friendly Holiday Décor
Brighten your home with sustainable decorations! Swap out traditional string lights for Energy Star-certified LED lights, which are 90% more energy-efficient and have a much longer lifespan. This simple change reduces your energy usage while keeping your home festive.
Before heading out of town, unplug electronics and other appliances to conserve energy. Even small actions like this can reduce your carbon footprint.
When it comes to ambiance, choose candles made from soy or beeswax instead of paraffin. Soy and beeswax candles burn cleaner, making them healthier for your indoor air quality while providing the same warm glow.
Get crafty with your decorations by repurposing items you already have. String together popcorn and cranberries for a classic holiday garland, or create unique ornaments using old jewelry, cookie cutters, or small toys. Not only are these decorations environmentally friendly, but they also bring a nostalgic charm to your home.
A Holiday That Makes a Difference
The holiday season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing sustainability. By making small but impactful changes—like choosing thoughtful gifts, creative wrapping, and energy-efficient décor—you can celebrate the season while taking care of theplanet.
Take on the challenge: try incorporating one or two ideas from each category above into your holiday routine this year. Together, we can make the season brighter, greener, and more meaningful.
From all of us at UW Sustainability, we wish you a joyful, safe, and sustainable holiday season!