While the Yuletide season is a time for joy and celebration, it’s also when waste and excess often peak, not only in the Philippines but all over the world.
With a bit of planning however, you can still enjoy all your favorite Christmas traditions while reducing your environmental impact. Here are some simple tips for a joyful, eco-friendly holiday season.
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Reuse Christmas decor
The holiday season often means a lot of shopping, especially for gifts and new decorations, which can strain both our wallets and the environment. Hence, it’s wise to celebrate the season sustainably by thinking green.
Reuse your last year’s plastic tree, baubles, and leftover wrapping paper. Use old Christmas lights, but don’t forget to test them for possible malfunctions. If you need new decorations, get creative by repurposing your child’s old toys or making do-it-yourself projects. For Christmas lights and parol, opt for LED lights or get solar-powered lights to cut down on both costs and environmental impact.
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Choose eco-friendly gifts
Aside from gifts for loved ones, give back to the planet by moving away from unsustainable consumerism.
Instead of buying trendy gifts, choose thoughtful presents like experiences—a relaxing day for mom or a fun outing with friends. Homemade or upcycled gifts are also great choices, offering a personal touch while encouraging reuse.
When it comes to wrapping, consider that every year, about 11.2 billion tons of solid waste are collected worldwide. Opt for sustainable alternatives like kraft paper, recycled paper, or reusable materials like fabrics or textiles.
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Reduce food waste
Food is a central part of holiday celebrations, but it can also lead to significant waste. To minimize this, plan meals and stick to a shopping list.
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Consider a plant-based feast this holiday season—reducing red meat is better not only for your family’s health but also for the planet. You can easily explore online for a variety of plant-based recipes from around the world that are both nutritious and eco-friendly.
For leftovers, pack up extras for guests, donate to food banks, or compost scraps to reduce waste and greenhouse gas emissions.
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Minimize carbon footprint
Travel and energy use tend to increase during the holidays. To help minimize your carbon footprint during holidays, consider carpooling, using public transportation, or even biking when traveling. If you’re planning a vacation, choose a local, nature-based destination for a more eco-friendly and cost-effective getaway.
As we enter the Yuletide season, these sustainable practices will help make the holidays more mindful and meaningful. Let’s make this season greener—without sacrificing any of the magic.
Source: Inquirer Archives, emb.gov.ph, unep.org