Activities

A Green Christmas

The Holidays are often synonymous with excesses of all kinds. But can we actually reduce our impact on the environment at Christmas? Here are some tips to help you out... keep these in mind for the next holiday season!

Advent Calendar

Instead of buying an advent calendar you’ll just end up throwing away after Christmas, why not make it a fun family activity and make a durable calendar out of fabric of felt so you can reuse it every year?

Lights

Lights are an important part of the Christmas décor. Choose LED lights, which will last longer and consume less energy. Some even use solar energy!

Christmas tree

According to Equiterre, unless you keep your artificial tree for more than 20 years or have purchased a used tree, natural trees remain the most environmentally friendly option because they generate the least greenhouse gas emissions. Some people prefer going without a tree at all and decorate a houseplant for a more modern look. Cascades also offer a Christmas tree made out of 100% recycled cardboard and it’s available in four festive models.

Decorations

When choosing your Christmas decorations, try to grab classics you can reuse year after year so you don’t have to buy everything again. If you want to change it up, search through bazaars, garage sales, do an ornaments exchange with family and friends or even create your own decorations by hand.

Cards

Christmas cards are a must, even today! Instead of buying expensive cards, you could create some yourself (use recycled paper!). If you don’t have time, buy locally made cards from a social enterprise. Even better, try to buy cards profiting a social cause!

Presents

If you are buying gifts, try to avoid items that are over-packaged. You can also try second-hand options or re-gift things you don’t use but think someone else would love. You can also make your own gifts, that way you’ll always be sure they are environmentally responsible.

Wrapping your gifts

Try to wrap your presents in something reusable like a cloth bag, a box or a basket. People love it and it’s the better, more responsible choice. If you choose wrapping paper, make sure to keep a recycling bin handy to discard it into. Keep ribbons and bows for future original crafts!

Different gifts

Instead of offering something you need to wrap, why don’t you think outside the box this year? Gift certificates to a restaurant or for a massage, theater tickets, a class, the options are endless!

Different gifts

Instead of offering something you need to wrap, why don’t you think outside the box this year? Gift certificates to a restaurant or for a massage, theater tickets, a class, the options are endless!

Christmas dinner

When planning your Christmas dinner, choose fruits and vegetables that are in season at your local market. Avoiding transportation actually means the ecological footprint will diminish. Plus, it’s so good to eat fresh food!

Image de Mariem Melainine

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