Being kind to the planet and adopting a sustainable approach during a time traditionally associated with indulgence and excess is easier than you think.
Branch Out. Artificial Xmas trees are made from plastic, and unless yours is recycled, it’s time to go green. Real trees are biodegradable while artificial ones take centuries to break down. But for the most sustainable option of all, buy a living tree in a pot which you can replant. Ditch the tinsel and decorate it with paper stars, velvet ribbons and treasured ornaments. Or choose handcrafted baubles made of wood or recycled glass to reduce landfill – and your carbon footprint.
Set the scene. Entries, fireplaces and staircases look magnificent twined with leaves, ivy and LED fairy lights or arranged with swathes of foliage and flowers. Or get the kids busy making paper chains and hang ribbons from ceilings and bannisters.
Top table. Instead of plastic or paper plates, pull out your family dinner service or curate a mix of vintage dinnerware. Swathe your table in vintage fabric and style it with raw linens and homemade eco-friendly bonbons, dried florals, vintage glassware, trailing ivy and candlelight.
Heaven scent. Add instant nostalgic cheer with natural scents like roasted chestnuts, bundles of cinnamon, dried oranges, incense or a candle fragrant with frankincense. Lightly mist the air and allow the natural scent of Christmas fill your home.
Light the way. Stay environmentally friendly and keep the power bill down with non-toxic beeswax candles, energy-efficient LED lights that don’t burn precious fossil fuels or solar-powered fairy lights, which use 100% clean energy.
Wrap it up. Rummage through your local op shop for silk and velvet offcuts, recycle your kid’s artwork or use handprinted butcher’s paper in place of wrapping paper. Or wrap your gifts in a cotton tote or tea towel as a bonus gift!