You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make – Jane Goodall, English anthropologist
The hustle and bustle of the Christmas season is already upon us. Various different traditions celebrate in their own way this holiday season.
The holiday season’s effect on the environment
It’s a joyous and wondrous time for all. But have you thought about making this season an eco-friendly one? There’s no doubt that this season sees an increase in disposed non-recyclable items more than any other time of year, such as wrapping paper, packaging, and the dreaded plastic.
According to Zero Waste Canada, “the average Canadian family throws out 25-45 percent more garbage over the holidays.” What does this mean for our valued numerous eco-systems? Microplastics, for one, pollute our oceans and landfills because of the multiple non-biodegradable and non-recyclable components within the pollutants.
This results in worsening climate change and has a detrimental effect on marine and other wildlife. It also presents an issue for public health in that environmental contaminants can give rise to diseases, such as asthma, cardiovascular issues, cancer, and birth defects. This transitions to a rise in increased costs in health systems.
Opt for real Christmas trees
Having an eco-friendly Christmas takes very little effort and imagination. All you need to do is remain mindful of the resources you’re using and disposing of to create a greener holiday season.
Some resort to artificial trees rather than real ones. Consider that the artificial tree results in an increase of carbon emissions because they are shipped from around the world. Composed of plastic and metal, they are also non-recyclable and land up in overburdened landfills. You can’t beat the smell of a freshly cut Christmas tree. Some locations even offer the option of recycling your tree after Christmas.
A wooden dowel tree is designed from reclaimed wood that can be assembled and reassembled year after year. Decorate it as you would with a real tree while getting creative with handmade decorations.
Some potted plants can also be used. They can be quite eye-catching when adorned with lights, candy canes, and recycled fabrics. Dowel trees can be made with different lengths and diameters. They are also sturdy and versatile.
Cut down on electricity usage
Use fewer lights and resort to LED lights that can be hooked to a timer to turn on and off at selected intervals. If everyone is congregated in one room, turn off the television and other lights not in use.
Good quality LED lighting is the greenest of all light sources. It can last 25 times longer than the traditional light bulb, which uses valuable resources in their manufacturing, packaging, and shipping. LED’s are also non-toxic and contain no hazardous materials.
Use eco-friendly wrapping paper and cards
Rather than buying Christmas cards, use old maps, magazines, newspapers, baskets, or mason jars. Using fabric like scarves, tea towels, or a clean shirt sleeve tied with a furoshiki style knot is another creative way to present your gift.
Also, rather than buying Christmas cards, use eco-friendly cards that are handmade with artisan seed paper produced using 100 percent post-industrial recycled paper, vegetable dyes, and water-based inks. The card can be soaked overnight, torn up, and then planted under a small layer of soil with some water. Eventually, wildflowers will begin to grow.
Opting for an eco-friendly Christmas is a responsibility we should all share. It would be a gift to our planet.