This season is the perfect time to make some changes to your traditional gifting practices. Studies show that Americans create 25% more waste during the holidays, much of which comes from packaging!
Sustainable Gift Wrapping
Many wrapping materials are single-use and made of plastic, like glossy wrapping paper or glittery holiday bows. Below are some easy swaps for packaging gifts that will make your holiday season greener.
Reusable Wraps
Your wrapping can actually be a gift itself. By wrapping your gifts in t-shirts, blankets, or dish towels, you can cut down on holiday waste and deliver two gifts in one!
You can also purchase reusable cloth gift wraps from many retailers, so you can store them with your holiday gear and reuse them every season.
Reusable Gift Boxes
Consider purchasing reusable boxes for your holiday gifting. These items are sturdier than your average cardboard box and come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and styles.
Unlike single-use boxes, these boxes can then be used to store and organize items around your home or can be saved for next year’s gifting!
Repurposed Packaging
By wrapping your gifts in paper bags or old shipping boxes, you are giving those materials a second life! Paper bags with patterns or store logos can easily be turned inside-out for a simple, minimalist style. When you’re done, these bags can be placed in the recycling bin.
Switch out those plastic ribbons and bows for twine or string made from natural fibers. There are typically plastic-free options made from wool, hemp, or cotton.
Mason Jars
Filling glass jars with fun things like hot cocoa or brownie mix is a great way to add a personal touch to any holiday event. It also is an easy way to reuse old jars that you might have lying around your house.
You can also make your own pickles, candied nuts, and spice mixes to fill your jars with custom creations!
It’s easy to make simple changes to our holiday traditions that can have a big impact. These small sustainable swaps will make your holidays greener and help Take Care of Texas!
References
Stanford University. “Frequently Asked Questions: Holiday Waste Prevention.”