Zero waste Christmas: howt to have an eco-responsible festive season?
As parents, we sometimes tend to grumble every year about the mountain of presents at the foot of the tree (although when we were kids, it didn't bother us that much). Yes, we do. Gifts that we wish hadn't been sailed halfway round the world, that were made of wood rather than plastic, that were more ‘useful and sustainable’. So, even if ecological perfection remains elusive during this festive season of letting go, here are a few tips for reducing your environmental impact as much as possible.
DIY : do your own gifts for Xmas!
The first tip for moving towards zero waste is homemade! This is an option that depends on your DIY or creative arts skills: a robot made from scrap wood, a superhero/heroine costume, a slightly original photo frame... The web is full of ideas for making a personalised gift, as well as all your Christmas decorations and your Advent calendar. We've even given you a few ideas here.
Use zero-waste gift packaging
We all remember the dustbin full of packaging, just a few minutes after everyone has frantically opened their packets. In France, 20,000 tonnes of packaging are consumed every year-end. So there are several ways you can put an end to this waste. The first is not to tear it open, but to open it carefully. Fold it up and use it for a future birthday or save it for next year. Alternatively, you can use a sheet of newspaper. It's just as practical and attractive. Finally, you can simply forget about paper and opt for a scarf, a bulk bag, a glass jar, a pretty tin can or even cotton nappies! All these containers make a great little extra gift! This last solution is inspired by the Japanese tradition of ‘Furoshiki’. As well as combating waste, you can discover a new culture! Ain't life grand?
Choose second-hand gifts for your children
Vinted, Ebay, your local second-hand shop... it's now easy to find everything you want second-hand. Whether it's records, clothes, trainers, books, comics, Lego cases, Pokémon cards or board games, you'll find everything you want to give your children a treat second-hand. Just remember to get there a little early. Shopping, ordering and sending items can sometimes take a little longer.
Think about intangible gifts !
What if you were to offer what is perhaps the most essential of all: a little time with your loved ones, to do with them what they love to do? A walk in the woods or a monthly cinema, a concert or a play, a surprise weekend, an afternoon learning woodwork, cooking or music. There are so many ways you can create truly essential memories with your loved ones!
Simplify your life!
