For some people, Christmas is seen as synonymous with going all out: gifts, decorations, great delicacies, trips… And although this is exciting, at TMA we believe that Christmas can also be lived intensely in a responsible way and without wasting resources. It is about incorporating some sustainable habits into traditional customs. If you want to enjoy greener holidays, here are some very easy tips that you can incorporate to live a sustainable Christmas.
TREE, CHRISTMAS DECORATION AND SUSTAINABLE GIFTS
Did you know that you can have your own Christmas tree without having to buy a plastic one or sacrifice a natural fir tree?
The way is, creating your own sustainable Christmas tree, with loose branches or other recycled elements. Go out into nature. This Christmas, develop your creativity and organize an outing to the countryside with your family or friends. Why not also take advantage of keeping the environment clean, leaving it free of trash? Of course, each person must take care of their own waste, but we should all collaborate to maintain the environment.
To ensure circularity with Christmas decorations, reuse those from other years or recycle materials you have at home to create them, thus reducing the consumption of new elements.
You can use wrapping paper you have at home to package your gifts (cardboard, paper, order packages…). New wrapping paper is only used for a few minutes, however, it has a high environmental cost for our forests.
Opt for useful and sustainable gifts. Do you think the recipient will like an experience, an ecological or recycled product, something second-hand in good condition?
The point is to look for ideas that do not generate as much waste as buying something completely new would.
LOW-CO2 CHRISTMAS MENU, SHOP AND COOK RESPONSIBLY
As far as possible, consume food products from Km.0, they are much more sustainable than food that travels more than 100 km, and at the same time, you will be supporting the local economy.
Avoid wasting food. If there is something left over from Christmas meals, it is time to bring out the chef in you. Take advantage and organize a lively activity with your children, grandchildren, nephews/nieces… Invent a dish together while showing them important actions such as recycling and the use of resources.
The oven is your ally, but it is important to use it well by preparing several things at once, thus saving money and energy.
PUT ENERGY EFFICIENCY INTO PRACTICE
Adjust your thermostat according to the temperature. To avoid spending more energy than necessary, remember that it is also important to dress according to the cold weather. This is how you will find the middle ground, efficient for you and the environment.
Choose LED bulbs. They last longer and consume much less energy than conventional bulbs. In addition to the environment, your pocket will notice it.
Keep in mind the lights that are not being used. It is important to keep them closed and save electricity, even during celebrations.
To save more resources and your bill, use the eco mode on your appliances, if they have it. You can also put aerators on the taps, you won’t notice it with your eyes, but the environment will thank you.
3R: REDUCE – RECYCLE – REUSE AT CHRISTMAS TOO
A sector in which a lot of waste is generated, especially during Christmas time, is the fashion sector, especially “fast fashion”. However, it is something that can be reduced by buying second-hand clothes, exchanging clothes with your friends for special events, reusing clothes from other years…
When you go shopping, remember to bring reusable bags, you will avoid spending money on plastic or cardboard bags in stores, which have a very short lifespan and generate a large amount of waste.
It is preferable to clean the dishes, cutlery, glassware… that you already have, than to buy disposable plates, forks and glasses.
By digitizing to save paper, what if the little ones in the house send an email to Santa Claus or the Three Wise Men?
It will reach them just as quickly and it is a good time to explain to them the importance of taking care of the planet.
At TMA we are committed to a Zero Waste Christmas.
