A Greener Christmas: How to Celebrate Sustainably Without Losing the Joy

When you think of Christmas, you probably picture twinkling lights, beautifully wrapped presents, and special traditions with family and friends. It’s a magical time — but it also comes with a hidden cost. Every year, the festive season generates millions of tonnes of extra waste worldwide: from single-use wrapping paper and plastic packaging to food waste and unwanted gifts.

But here’s the good news: celebrating sustainably doesn’t mean giving up on the joy or magic of Christmas. In fact, it can mean creating new traditions that feel even more meaningful.

Here are a few simple, practical ways to make your Christmas kinder to the planet — while still keeping it special.

1. Rethink Gift Wrap 

Did you know most wrapping paper can’t be recycled because of glitter, plastic coatings, or sticky tape? Instead, switch to reusable gift wrap — like our fabric gift bags — that can be used year after year. Not only do they look beautiful under the tree, but they also turn into part of the gift itself.

Tip: If you love the look of paper, choose plain kraft paper and decorate with reusable ribbon or greenery.

2. Gifts With Meaning 

It’s easy to get swept up in the pressure to buy lots of things. Instead, think about quality over quantity.

• Experiences (like a cooking class, a concert ticket, or a family day out) often create memories that last longer than material items.
• Handmade gifts show love and thoughtfulness.
• Or go practical — something the recipient truly needs and will use. Let's normalise requests so that your recipient can get something they really want!

3. Cut Food Waste 

Food is at the heart of Christmas celebrations, but so much ends up in the bin. A few easy changes can help:

• Plan meals and shop with a list to avoid overbuying.
• Get creative with leftovers (bubble & squeak, frittatas, or freezer-friendly portions).
• Compost scraps where possible.

4. Decorations That Last 

Instead of buying cheap decorations that don’t survive the season, choose quality pieces you can reuse each year. You could even make it a family tradition to add one new ornament annually — something that tells a story and adds to the collection.

Our fabric Christmas Crowns also hit the mark for a seasonal touch that can be used over and over. Wear them showing the same print or reverse them each year. And our Reusable Gift Tags can simply be erased and written on again. 

5. Mindful Traditions 

Christmas is about connection. Think about what really matters to you: is it sitting down for a meal together, the carols, the tree-decorating, or the Christmas morning chaos? Keeping the focus on experiences makes the season joyful, regardless of the stuff.

A sustainable Christmas isn’t about saying “no” to the things you love — it’s about saying “yes” to traditions that last, memories that matter, and choices that are kinder to the planet. Small changes, when made together, can make a big impact.