Christmas doesn't have to cost the earth

Remember to be kind to the planet at Christmas, there are fulfilling ways to align holiday traditions whilst protecting our planet for future generations! Christmas doesn’t need to cost the earth, here’s some top tips for having a sustainable Christmas.

Decorations

Why not make decorations from natural or recycled materials like pinecones, dried oranges, or old fabric. Authentic and so on trend. And why not create a reusable DIY advent calendar - a great way to be sustainable while creating your own family traditions and keeping the kids busy.

Lights 

Christmas isn’t Christmas without lots of twinkly fairy lights. Just make sure they are LED and use timers to switch them on and off when they are most needed.

Gifts

Shop local. Shopping locally is not just better for the environment and community life but is also more socially responsible.
Second hand doesn’t mean second rate. There’s a plethora of shops selling vintage, reclaimed or quality preloved items that can make perfect gifts and decorations. https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/preloved-charitable-retailers-and-donations

Pre-loved books, seeds or special homemade treats such as jam, also make great stocking fillers.
Or why not make a donation to charity in someone’s name instead of giving a physical gift or donate to your local food bank.    

Experiences 

Gift a local experience with event tickets or memberships. A meal or beauty treatment or arts class or concert with a walk in Castle Gardens or Hillsborough Forest can create a perfect gift. Or why not gift a bowling experience or ice skating!

Food

There’s nothing quite like browsing and buying produce from local farms or Christmas markets and be sure to add more plant-based options. Switching to a more plant-based diet immediately reduces an individual's carbon footprint. Avoid waste by planning carefully and making meals from leftovers.  Choose Fairtrade food gifts like chocolate and coffee.

Christmas Outfits 

Many of us love to dress up at Christmas. Try to buy investment pieces that you know you’ll wear and love for many seasons. Why not swap last year’s novelty Christmas jumper with a friend and you’ll both have a new look.
You can still embrace the holiday spirit and celebrate Christmas but by taking a sustainable approach you’ll be giving the planet the best gift of all. 

https://www.lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk/w/preloved-charitable-retailers-and-donations