Lifestyle

How can I be green at Christmas?

Christmas can be a time of excess and over-consumption. Check out our festive tips which won't cost the earth.

 

Did you know?

3 million tonnes of waste is dumped during Christmas in the UK.

 

Presents

  • Try flea markets, antique jewellery and vintage shops for gifts.
  • Give local, organic hampers, locally-brewed beer or organic wine.
  • Make chutneys, cakes, flavoured oils or chocolates.
  • Treat people to theatre tickets.
  • Give 'Save Cash and Save the Planet' by Friends of the Earth.
  • Re-use bags when buying presents.

Food and drink

  • Buy seasonal, local produce and loose not pre-packed vegetables.
  • Avoid using disposable plates and cups.
  • Compost vegetable leftovers.
  • Re-use and recycle aluminium foil.

Trees, cards and wrapping

  • Recycle any cards you receive.
  • Send a Friends of the Earth Christmas E-card.
  • Choose cards and wrapping which are recycled (e.g. from the Friends of the Earth shop) .
  • Check that your council recycle real trees.

Don't put on the pounds this Christmas. Shop wisely and remember 'less is more'.

Related links