We were young and completely broke when my husband and I first started dating. We began those early birthdays picnicking under the stars, driving from coast to coast, and spending holidays in the mountains as the first snow fell.
As we grew older and could afford gifts, we still turned away from the material and latched on to the experiences. Now that we could indulge each other, we didn’t want to give up those experiences that shaped our relationship.
Instead of piles of gifts we wouldn’t remember giving, we used that budget to make experiences that neither of us would forget.
I can’t remember most of what was beneath the sparkly wrapping, but now that family members have been lost, the one thing I find myself wishing for is more time, more experiences, and more memories that I could hold on to.
Zero-Waste Holidays
A disturbing fact about the holiday season (between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day) is that humans generate 25%- 43% more trash than at any other time of the year. That isn’t to mention that the U.S. uses more electricity during December than some countries use throughout the entire year, thanks to all the additional decor inside and out, lights, blow-ups, and more.
Here are some ideas for reducing our impact while enhancing the holiday cheer.
Reduce Food Waste
Food is the biggest item that we ditch year-round. I’m guilty of this. I always plan the meals I want to eat, but then I’ll get sick, plans change, or I’ll forget what I’ve bought and be stuck with waste. During the holidays, people will find that they buy too much and have food they are sick of seeing.
How to get around this: Meal prep (and actually stick to your menu), send guests home with leftovers (and if no one wants any—donate them!), and if donating isn’t feasible, my favorite is adding the uneaten food to the compost (make sure it is compostable first).
Recycle Your Trash
It’s true that recycling isn’t as efficient or all-encompassing as we are frequently told. However, that doesn’t mean it is worth skipping over. Check with your local recycling programs and donation centers and see what items of yours they can take.
Again, a lot of packaging is compostable, too.
You can also limit the non-recyclable items you use and make eco-friendly swaps.
Wrapping paper:
- Switch from metallic, glossy, and glittery papers to . . .
- Fabric (reusable and sensory-friendly), eco-friendly wrapping paper (recycled and recyclable).
Tape:
- Switch from clear plastic tape (that is not recyclable) to . . .
- Washi tape or other tape options (which are often beautiful!)
Ribbons:
- Switch from glossy paper bows and ribbons that can’t be recycled to . . .
- Raffia (a biodegradable natural ribbon material) or something similar can find its way to your compost. You can also reuse ribbons (many ribbons on my presents have found their way over the years to be hair ties and bows)
Shop Small and Buy Local
Don’t forget there are likely dozens of winter markets sprinkled around your area with local vendors who are more than eager to share their crafts with you! (I was one of them for many years!)
Shopping small and local helps strengthen your local community. More and more crafters are looking for ways to create more sustainable crafts, packaging, and thoughtfully sourced materials than big brands.
With my small business, I am constantly looking to cut our plastic use, reduce our carbon footprint, and work with multiple environmental programs to leave a positive impact—and I’m not alone in this!
You can even get creative yourself and make a gift! I truly have remembered every thoughtful gift that someone crafted for me, and they have also stood the test of time.
Save Energy
I won’t be the Grinch and tell you to take down your holiday decor. Still, there are many better options, such as opting for more efficient holiday lights, turning off the decor when you don’t need it on (like my neighbors, whose lights and blow-up decor run 24/7 from All Hallow’s Eve until Valentine’s Day), or even opting for solar-powered decor!
Experience the Season
My personal favorite way to spend the holidays is through experiences. Spend time with those you love most. It doesn’t have to be a fancy trip, an expensive restaurant, or an exotic location. All that really matters is spending time with those you love.
Memories are free, and time is priceless.
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