The holiday season is a time for joy, but it’s also a period when waste can accumulate quickly. Between excessive packaging, disposable gift wrap, and gifts that will soon be discarded, Christmas can be a drain on the planet.
However, there’s a growing movement toward sustainable gift-giving that not only benefits the environment but also creates more thoughtful, meaningful presents for loved ones.
Here are some easy tips for making Christmas more sustainable this year:
Focus on Experiences, Not Stuff
One of the most sustainable gifts you can give is the gift of an experience. Rather than adding to someone’s clutter with more things they may not need, why not offer tickets to a concert, cooking class, or a weekend getaway? These experiences create lasting memories and require no packaging or shipping, making them a win for both the recipient and the planet.
Support Local Artisans and Eco-Friendly Brands
Buying from local makers or artisans who focus on sustainable practices can reduce the carbon footprint of shipping and help support small businesses.
Did you know, when you support a local small business, for every $100 spent, $46 of that goes back into the local economy! Compared with only $18 at a chain store. Your small effort to look for local gifts from small businesses can have a large impact.
Choose Thoughtful, Sustainable Products
If you prefer giving physical gifts, opt for items that are practical and made from sustainable materials. Zero-waste refill stores, such as FILL - Kelowna’s Refill Store, are perfect for sourcing eco-friendly presents such as natural skin & body care, non-toxic candles and household items scented with essentials oils and free from harmful ingredients.
DIY Gifts: Personalized and Low-Waste
Handmade gifts are a great way to add a personal touch while reducing your environmental impact. Crafting a custom candle, knitted scarf, or jar of homemade jam means no excess packaging, and you can often repurpose materials you already have at home. Eco-friendly candle refills are an easy way to make candles at home, without any waste.
Eco-Friendly Wrapping
Traditional wrapping paper is often not recyclable due to its glossy finish and synthetic fibers. Instead, opt for reusable gift wraps made from fabric, such as furoshiki (Japanese wrapping cloths) and tea towels, or use old newspapers, magazines, or maps. Another option is to wrap gifts in a reusable tote bag, which can be part of the present itself. The idea is to make the wrapping just as sustainable as the gift inside!
Give the Gift of Sustainability
This Christmas, take the opportunity to shift your gift-giving habits to something more sustainable, thoughtful, and impactful. From reusable everyday items to experiences and homemade gifts, there are endless ways to reduce waste and make a positive impact. By making mindful choices, you can celebrate the season with joy, knowing you’re helping to care for the planet.
FILL - Kelowna’s Refill Store offers two locations for your holiday shopping convenience, Lakeshore Road in the Mission Park Shopping Centre, or Orchard Park Shopping Centre for the holiday season located between Purdy’s and Indigo.
