The issue of environmental protection is increasingly taken seriously. Since it concerns all areas of mass consumption, Christmas is no exception. During Christmas, every household wants to treat themselves to the best to spend moments of joy and cheerfulness. It is therefore difficult to think of an ecological Christmas!
But the good news is that it is entirely possible to celebrate Christmas and preserve nature at the same time. How can we continue to celebrate Christmas while respecting ecological rules? Should we abandon the traditions of this holiday to preserve nature? Follow these tips to have and celebrate an ecological Christmas.
Opt for a natural tree, it's the minimum for an ecological Christmas
A Christmas without a tree is not really a Christmas. It is a symbolic tree of this festive season. Every year millions of trees are uprooted from our forests: a hard blow for the environment which is already struggling to stay in good condition.
First of all, it should be noted that there is an opinion that has been circulating for quite some time about artificial trees . According to this preconceived idea, artificial trees are more ecological than natural trees. No, this is not the case and you will understand why.
Thinking about avoiding deforestation, many people do not hesitate to choose artificial trees. Artificial Christmas trees are produced from plastic and aluminum. Two materials that are toxic to the environment and biodiversity. Of course, artificial Christmas trees last a long time, but the environmental impact has enormous repercussions.
Are Christmas trees finally destined to disappear?
The fir trees will remain and so will the forests. Several ecological solutions exist to perpetuate the tradition of Christmas gifts under the tree while preserving our forests. One of them is the natural fir tree in a pot. This green fir tree is grown in environmentally friendly conditions and comes straight from the Belgian Ardennes.
To celebrate Christmas while being eco-friendly, the natural fir tree is the Christmas tree to choose. Since it is potted, you can easily replant it in your garden after the Christmas period has passed. The tree thus planted will be used to celebrate other Christmases. However, if after Christmas, the tree is no longer in good condition or cannot withstand the thermal conditions of your home, know that the natural fir tree is recyclable. This conifer can easily be transformed into wood chips.
Eco-friendly Christmas decor, LED garlands make their grand entrance
Christmas decorations are just as important as choosing the tree. Energy-efficient or LED garlands are a must-have, as they can help you have an eco-friendly Christmas. LED garlands are decorative gadgets that always make the atmosphere cheerful.
The light shows are just as beautiful as when you use classic fairy lights that increase electricity costs. The same goes for fairy lights produced abroad. The carbon footprint of these is very high given the distance they have to travel to land in stores and supermarkets. So to decorate your tree as well as your home, opt for LED fairy lights: it's simple and ecological.
Sustainable Advent calendars: always in the eco-friendly spirit
An Advent calendar always warms the heart. Its presence in the house is the sign that Christmas is only a few days away. Children or adults, everyone lends themselves to this game of patience which is to turn over a single card of the Advent calendar per day. Instead of buying or giving away disposable Advent calendars, do this instead: Buy or make one that is durable. The durability of this calendar will allow you to reuse it year after year. To continue creating the surprise effect, you can add word phrases or fill it with chocolates and sweets.
How about an eco-friendly festive meal?
Christmas is a time of sharing and this time usually takes place around a meal between families and loved ones. At Christmas, the meal is sacred and even at this level by very simple acts, nature can be preserved. Before composing the menu, think about consuming local and organic. In general, seasonal fruits and vegetables are ideal for garnishing plates.
Of course, there are some essentials that keep the tradition of Christmas meals going. These are obviously meat, foie gras, salmon and seafood. For a successful ecological Christmas, avoid wasting these foodstuffs at all costs. To do this, please make your forecasts before purchasing and determine exactly the quantity needed for your menu.
For meat, favor free-range farms or labeled products. As for salmon, make sure to take one that is approved and fished in strict compliance with marine products. Also, the presence of seafood such as shrimp, whelks, oysters is inevitable in a Christmas meal. Therefore, prefer seafood with the certificate of a recognized label.
As for vegetables, if you have the possibility to consume seasonal vegetables then do not hesitate. Similarly, favor purchases from local merchants to encourage the consumption of local products and the cultivation of organic vegetables.
Wrap your Christmas presents differently
It's hard to spend Christmas without seeing presents under the tree. Gifts help strengthen bonds and create good memories. But gift wrapping or wrapping paper pollutes. In addition, tons of wrapping paper are wasted each year. It's amazing when it is now possible to make eco-responsible and above all very original gifts. Choose a homemade gift, it's a good way to show your commitment to protecting the environment. In addition, gifts made by yourself always have this particularity and a unique touch. You can also personalize them by engraving symbols on them. Children can also indulge in it by making a small gift like a wooden toy. Spend Christmas teaching them the right reflexes for a healthier planet.
Apart from these few gift ideas to limit the use of wrapping paper, there are also other alternatives. Use newspaper or recycled paper to make your gift wrapping. If you are looking for more aesthetics for the packaging, you can also buy jars with attractive patterns. Of course, they will cost you more than recycled paper, but they are reusable at any time.
If making things isn't your forte, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to think about giving. Make a donation to a charity. You'll put a smile on thousands of people's faces. Just like you can donate your items that are no longer useful (last Christmas toys, clothes, etc.) and give them a second life.
Celebrating an eco-friendly Christmas is actually just as beneficial for each household as it is for the environment. From choosing the Christmas tree to choosing the perfect gift and decorating your home, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas in an environmentally friendly way. Likewise, whether you are around a Christmas tree or a Christmas table, always keep in mind that the planet needs your help to survive.
