As much as we all love the holidays we should keep in mind the amount of materials being wasted during this period, around 30% in many households, and even higher for the retail sector.

With a few minor adjustments to the waste management plan, companies can easily reduce their refuse by carefully choosing a vendor and making use of green packaging or delivery options.

Read on to learn how you can keep your waste output low and stay off the naughty list.

Table of Contents

• Preventative Ways of Reducing Business Waste
• Negotiating Greener Delivery Options with the Supplier
• Cardboard Packaging Recycling
• Options for Recycling
• Christmas Waste Statistics

Preventative Ways of Reducing Business Waste

1. Choose low packaging vendors

When finding ways to reduce the amount of waste your business is generating over the holidays you should should consider a top-down approach.

Use fewer unnecessary materials which can’t be recycled, including items for sale, in-store signage as well as store tools and equipment.

A perfect example would be to buy stock and items from vendors who offer low or biodegradable packaging options.

It’s expected that there will be a rise in packaging disposal during the Christmas period.

In recent years this curve has been exacerbated due to the growing popularity of online e-commerce sites, allowing consumers to order items at the touch of a button.

Now items require individual delivery and packaging, adding more waste to the overall pile at the end of the holidays.

It is believed that 49% of Christmas gift purchases are conducted online these days which only adds more waste to occur during Christmas.

Consider purchasing eco-friendly items made locally to promote in your store!

2. Choose Green Delivery Options

Lower than 1% of Britain’s online stores are offering ‘sustainable delivery’ as an option and due to this we would advise looking into your chosen supplier to ensure that they offer sustainable methods.

Even though you may find that every retailer doesn’t advertise a low-carbon option for delivering items, you can always find ways to offer more flexibility to the supplier by allowing them to alter the date and time of delivery.

This way they can add the items to a vehicle that will already be in the area on a set route.

Lower emissions will keep Rudolf happy and keep the roads a little less Clause-trophobic during the holidays.

These measures help to keep cars off the road and reduce the amount of materials needed to wrap or package items.

When transporting goods to stores they are typically placed into one larger box with minimal additional packaging and padding on the inside (unless the items being stored are fragile).

3. Combined Delivery

For those companies that do offer greener options for receiving your items, you will need to select combined delivery or the equivalent in their vernacular.

This will have your items placed together in a box with other items of a similar nature.

Negotiating Greener Delivery Options with the Supplier

In the case that a supplier is sending you too much wrapping and packaging we advise that you offer feedback to their customer service.

You’ll be surprised how often companies will adjust to accommodate their customers, and even if these changes don’t take immediate effect, they will be looked into for large-scale adjustments.

In the case of single clients, a company will likely offer flexibility to keep their customers happy.

Cardboard Packaging Recycling

Any cardboard packaging material can be recycled in locations such as Leicestershire by placing them in a collected pile on the curbside.

If there is a large amount of the material to be disposed of, we recommend compressing or flattening the packaging so that the volume is greatly reduced and will take up far less space inside your recycling waste unit.

As an alternative in the case that there is no more space within your bin, you have options to arrange a one-off collection from a clearance service provider or even deliver the material to a recycling collection centre yourself.

Options for Recycling

A lot of delivery items will include materials for protecting the goods which have been stored.

Even though many of these materials can’t go into a standard recycling bin there are still options that can save your business costs over time and also go a long way to reduce Christmas waste going to landfill. Strategies to reduce waste can help reduce costs and improve profitability by minimising disposal expenses, and fostering a positive brand image associated with sustainability practices.

One example is internal packaging protection on fragile materials such as bubble wrap, polystyrene and air pockets.

Even though these can’t be placed into your standard recycling bin, there are options to recycle the material which will work out cheaper than simply filling up your general waste bin with the material (leading to further collections needed).

One common workaround for larger sites is to make use of a compactor machine.

This machine can compress the material into smaller blocks to be stored within a space until they can be collected at a date when the volume of the material has reached a predetermined threshold.

At this point, a collection vehicle will remove the plastics to be recycled at a treatment centre.

Christmas Waste Statistics

General Christmas Statistics

The true scale of how much waste is produced over the holidays can be shocking.

Here are some of the Christmas waste statistics to give you a picture of what we’re tackling:

Around 114 tonnes of plastic packaging will be disposed of without recycling in the UK this year.

21 million people are to receive one or more unwanted gifts at Christmas.

Even worse, 5% of those will be thrown into a waste bin for disposal, that’s 1.5 million items needlessly wasted and going to landfills.

And What about the Food Waste Statistics Over Christmas?

You can expect to see a lot more than four million Christmas dinners to be thrown away each year – which will be roughly 7.5 million mince pies,  263,000 turkeys, about 740,000 christmas puddings and 11.3 million roasted potatoes.

The post Dealing With Retail Waste at Christmas – The Right Way! appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

Who makes the Recycling Naughty List?

As the jolly man in red makes his way around the world delivering presents to good boys and girls, it’s important to remember the impact our actions have on the environment.

While many countries have made strides in increasing their recycling rates, there are still some that lag behind. These countries, unfortunately, find themselves on Santa’s Recycling Naughty List.

According to data gathered by Statista, the countries with the lowest recycling rates are Chile, Costa Rica, and Turkey, with rates of only 0.5%, 6.1%, and 12.3% respectively.

This is concerning, as recycling plays a crucial role in reducing waste and conserving natural resources. And, the alternative, landfills are terrible for the environment.

On the other hand, some countries have impressive recycling rates. Germany, for example, has a recycling rate of 67.1%, making them a shining star on Santa’s Recycling Nice List.

Other countries that have earned a spot on the nice list include South Korea, Austria, and The Netherlands, with recycling rates of 59.7%, 59%, and 56.8% respectively.

Disappointingly, the UK is still under a 50% recycling rate at 42.9%. But with Britain targeting 50% by 2025, it’s arguably on track. But getting to 70% by 2030 might prove to be a challenge.

It’s important to note that increasing recycling rates isn’t just good for the environment, it’s also good for the economy.

Recycling creates jobs and helps to reduce the demand for raw materials, which can save money and resources in the long run.

So, as we gather with our loved ones this holiday season, let’s not forget the importance of recycling.

We’ve even given you 21 ideas on how to make eco-friendly Christmas gifts this year!

Let’s strive to make sure our countries don’t end up on Santa’s Recycling Naughty List, and instead, work towards a more sustainable future for all. Happy holidays!

The post Which Countries Make Santa’s Recycling Naughty List? appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

It has been estimated that over 1 billion Christmas cards are being thrown away each year in the United Kingdom.

With 1 tree producing around 3,000 greeting cards, it takes over 330,000 trees to meet the demands over the festive period (and this only covers cards and not other materials).

To put that into perspective, 41 Hectares would be the equivalent of 75 football stadiums.

In other words, we are felling a woodland every year to provide our loved ones with a Christmas card and show our appreciation.

Don’t worry. There are a lot of ways to keep this tradition going while still protecting our woodlands and wildlife.

Let’s make a gesture to our friends, families and the countryside this year with these amazing ideas for recycling your Christmas cards this year.

Selecting a Christmas Card with Zero-Waste in Mind

First of all, we advise checking that the printed cards have been FSC-certified (in addition to being recycled or recyclable).

It’s possible to find plantable cards which contain seeds to grow a variety of plants or even trees.

Consider planting a tree to give back to the environment.

You could view it as balancing the scales for paper wastage through Christmas cards being exchanged over a lifetime.

After which, if you have kids, a much more fun option would be to use recycled decorations and Christmas cards from previous years to make your custom greetings. Read our guide to learn more about how to encourage your kids to recycle.

Give it the personal touch by getting the family together for a crafts session.

Just be careful to avoid recycling Christmas cards containing any materials with plastic or glitter.

Here are several replantable card sellers that we recommend:

• Eco Living

• The Works

• I Love Zero

You will find that many charity organisations have also started selling FSC-certified cards to encourage others to move away from more wasteful vendors.

Christmas Card Recycling

Knowing Which Card to Buy

As a greeting card is something personal, not everyone will want to follow the same approach and will choose the best sustainable option for them.

Luckily there are a lot of fun and interesting ideas that have popped up over the years that you can easily try that we’ve listed below.

Gift Tags Made from Christmas Card Recycling

Yes, recycling Christmas cards as gift tags is a great way to reduce waste and give your gifts a personal touch.

Here are a few steps you can follow to recycle your Christmas cards into gift tags:

• Gather a selection of recycled Christmas cards that you no longer need. You can also ask friends and family members to donate any extra cards they have.

• Cut the fronts of the cards into small squares or rectangles that are large enough to fit a gift tag.

• Punch a hole in the top corner of each card using a hole punch.

• Write the recipient’s name on the card using a pen or marker. You can also add a short message or design if you wish.

• Attach the card to the gift using ribbon, twine, or string.

By recycling your Christmas cards into gift tags, you can give your gifts a personal touch while also helping to reduce Christmas waste.

Plus, it’s a fun and creative way to repurpose items that you might otherwise throw away.

Place Settings Made from Christmas Card Recycling

If you would like a more unique approach then you can try this little trick to surprise your guests.

To recycle Christmas cards into place settings, you can follow these steps:

• Gather all of the Christmas cards that you have received.

• Choose a card for each place setting and set it aside.

• Cut the pieces of card you’ve selected into the desired shape.

• Cut a strip of paper or ribbon and write the name of each person on a card using a pen or marker.

• Fold the card over so that it will stand upright.

• Place the card at each place setting on the table.

You can also use small clothespins or clips to attach the name tags to the cards if you are preparing them for a corporate party, or you can use a hole punch to make a hole in the top corner of the card and thread a ribbon through it to create a hanging name tag.

Alternatively, you can use the front of the card as a place setting by writing the name of each person directly on the card with a pen or marker.

You can also use decorative stickers or stamps to add a festive touch.

Read more ideas about sustainable Christmas gifts in our dedicated blog!

Recycling Christmas cards into place settings is a creative and festive way to add a personal touch to your holiday table.

Festive Bookmarks Made from Christmas Card Recycling

For those who are curling up near the fire during the holidays, why not add a festive touch to your book by using a recycled Christmas card to make a bookmark?

Resources – Recycle Christmas Cards into Bookmarks:

• A recycled Christmas card that you no longer need

• Scissors

• A hole punch

• A ribbon, string, or yarn

Instructions – How to Recycle Christmas Cards into Festive Bookmarks:

1 – Cut out the front of the Christmas card. You can either cut it straight across or cut it into a more decorative shape, such as a tree or a star.

2 – Punch a hole near the top of the card using the hole punch.

3 – Cut a piece of ribbon, string, or yarn that is long enough to go through the hole and extend beyond the card on both sides.

4 – Tie the ribbon, string, or yarn through the hole to create a loop.

You can now use the bookmark to mark your place in a book or as a festive decoration.

Note: If you want to add some extra durability to your bookmark, you can glue the front and back of the card together before cutting it out. This will create a more sturdy bookmark that will hold up better over time.

Recycling Christmas Cards by Planting Them

One new way to recycle Christmas cards which is growing in popularity is the plantable Christmas card.

Made of biodegradable material, this material provides the perfect base for seeds to sprout their shoots and grow.

The seeds are pressed into the material and are released into the solid as the paper begins to break down.

Multiple seed types can be used to grow anything from flowers or carrots to trees.

There’s a lot of variety so you may choose a card that suits the receiver before and after the holiday.

This novel gesture is a favourite of ours and one we have used here in the office.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we have covered 4 ways to recycle Christmas cards in 2024.

• Place Settings

• Gift Tags

• Bookmarks

• Plantable cards containing seeds

By making use of these ways to recycle Christmas cards we can enjoy the holidays with a slightly less guilty conscience that we’ve done our part to help move towards a more sustainable future.

Every little helps and we need to move towards this goal step by step.

Be creative!

From using leftovers for crafts to planting trees in your garden, there are so many ideas that you can try out.

If you have any of your own tips for Christmas card recycling, let us know and we’ll add it to the list.

The post Christmas Card Recycling appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

The twinkling lights and decorative ornaments that adorned it have brought joy and warmth to your home, but now it’s time to bid farewell until next year.

However, dealing with Christmas tree disposal can be a puzzle. Real trees can be messy and cumbersome to manage, and finding an environmentally responsible way to dispose of them is crucial.

This guide aims to provide comprehensive solutions for efficient and eco-friendly Christmas tree disposal, ensuring minimal effort and environmental impact.

We’ll explore various options, step-by-step guides, and tips to help you choose the best approach for your circumstances.

Table of Contents

• Arrange a tree collection service
• Benefits of a Christmas tree disposal service
• How can I prepare the Christmas tree for disposal before it’s collected?
• Can a Christmas tree be recycled?
• Christmas tree disposal facts & statistics UK

Arrange a tree collection service

A tree collection service, especially popular during the post-Christmas period, is a specialised service that provides a convenient and efficient way to dispose of your Christmas tree.

Several online and local businesses offer this service, making the process of tree removal effortless and environmentally responsible.

These services are generally provided by Christmas tree sellers or waste management companies. In the UK, renowned Christmas tree vendors like Sendmeachristmastree.co.uk and Hasslefreechristmastree.co.uk are known to not only sell Christmas trees but also offer tree collection services.

The cost associated with tree collection services can vary based on the provider and the specific terms of the service.

Some services may offer free collection if you purchased your tree from them, while others may charge a fee for collection even if you didn’t buy the tree from their establishment.

Benefits of a Christmas tree disposal service

Firstly, it saves you the hassle of transporting the tree yourself, especially if it’s large or cumbersome.

This service also promotes responsible Christmas tree disposal, ensuring that the conifers are properly recycled or repurposed. Many tree collection services participate in recycling initiatives, contributing to sustainability efforts.

Tree collection services are relatively common throughout the UK, especially in urban and suburban areas where real Christmas trees are popular. They are particularly prevalent in larger cities and towns, making it easier for residents to responsibly dispose of their Christmas trees after the holiday season.

How can I prepare the Christmas tree for disposal before it’s collected?

Before arranging a collection, it’s essential to prepare the tree by removing all decorations, lights, tinsel, and ornaments.

This ensures a clean and unobstructed tree for the collection team. Additionally, placing the tree in an accessible location, such as your front yard or driveway, streamlines the collection process.

Arranging a collection via a tree service is an excellent option for those seeking a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to part with their Christmas tree, allowing for a seamless transition from the festive season to the New Year.

Can a Christmas tree be recycled?

Yes, Christmas trees can be recycled in many ways. So you can choose an option that works best for you.

Common Christmas tree recycling methods include taking them to a recycling centre, composting and using the wood as part of a garden habitat.

1. Take It to Your Local Recycling Centre

Another environmentally responsible way to dispose of your Christmas tree is by taking it to your local recycling centre.

Recycling centres often accept Christmas trees and repurpose them into wood chips for paths or convert them into soil, reducing Christmas waste and benefiting the environment.

Step-by-Step Guide for Taking Your Tree to a Recycling Centre

• Remove Decorations: Take off all decorations, lights, tinsel, and ornaments from the tree, ensuring it’s clean and free of any non-biodegradable materials.

• Prepare the Tree for Transport: If necessary, cut the tree into manageable pieces to facilitate easy transportation to the recycling centre.

• Transport to Recycling Center: Transport the tree to your local recycling centre, following their guidelines and operating hours.

• Follow Recycling Guidelines: Adhere to the recycling centre’s specific instructions for tree disposal, ensuring you’re contributing to the recycling process effectively.

Taking your tree to a recycling centre is an eco-conscious choice that maximises the potential for repurposing the tree.

Christmas tree disposal facts & statistics UK

• Annual Christmas Tree Disposal Rate in the UK: An estimated 6-8 million real Christmas trees are used in the UK annually, and a significant portion of these trees require disposal after the holiday season. That’s roughly 120 to 160 square km of forest lost each year to trees felled for the holidays.

• Sales in UK vs the US: Each year, the UK sees a sale of over eight million Christmas trees, while the US surpasses this number with an estimated 25-30 million trees sold annually.

• Recycling and Repurposing Rate: Approximately 80-85% of real Christmas trees in the UK are recycled, repurposed, or reused in some form after the holiday season.

• Positive impact of planting Evergreen Conifers: An estimated 2.9m tonnes of topsoil is eroded in the UK due to wind and rainfall – planting tree shelterbelts around your farm lowers windspeed to help reduce that erosion.

Read our full guide for more Christmas waste statistics!

The post How to Dispose of a Christmas Tree appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. By making a few simple changes, we can reduce the amount of Christmas waste produced during the holiday season and help protect the planet.

To highlight some of the key environmental issues, we’ve compiled the biggest, best and most up-to-date list of Christmas waste facts for you!

Table of contents

• General Christmas waste facts
• Christmas wrapping paper waste facts
• Xmas packaging waste facts
• Christmas food waste facts
• Christmas recycling facts
• Reducing your Christmas waste
• How much does all this festive waste cost?
• Conclusion

General Christmas waste facts

• Compared to the rest of the year, the amount of waste produced at Christmas is 30% higher

• After the festivities, over 160,000 tonnes of Christmas trees are thrown away

• Spoiling Xmas trees emit over 100,000 tonnes of methane gas when they decompose

• The amount of energy needed to cook the nation’s brussels sprouts would be enough to power a home for 2.5 years

• During the Xmas break, we drive a collective total of a billion miles to visit family relatives and friends

• Christmas eve, Christmas day, and Boxing day combined makeup just under 6% of the UK’s total annual carbon emissions

• Around 39 million Christmas crackers are expected to be chucked into the bin this year

• If you laid out all the Xmas fairy lights thrown away each year it would stretch to 70,000 miles

• 75% of Xmas cards end up in the general waste bin and are not recycled

• By the time we reach spring, nearly half (41%) of gifted toys will be broken and end up in landfill

• Drinks accompany the festive season, with 9,500 tonnes of glass beer and wine bottles being discarded by us Brits

• 34 million champagne/prosecco bottles are thrown away each Christmas

Christmas wrapping paper waste facts

One of the biggest sources of waste during Christmas is wrapping paper and gift bags. While these may make presents look nice under the tree, they often end up in the bin after they’re opened.

To reduce this waste, consider using reusable gift bags or boxes instead of disposable ones. You can also wrap gifts in newspapers, fabric, or even old maps or comics. These options not only reduce waste, but they can also add a unique and personal touch to your gifts.

• If you take all the Xmas wrapping paper that ends up in the bin and lay it out flat end to end it would stretch to 238,855 miles – that’s the average distance of the Earth to the Moon!

• 40 million rolls of sellotape are used to wrap up presents each year in the UK

• In Britain, we send over 5 million tonnes of wrapping paper to landfill every year – 75% of this is during Christmas

• Around 50,000 trees are cut down to make the wrapping paper used to wrap Christmas presents

Xmas packaging waste facts

• Most Christmas packaging waste ends up in landfill. In fact, 114,000 tonnes of recyclable packaging waste is wrongly put into the general waste bin during the festive period

• 4,500 tonnes of tin foil is used to cover leftover Turkey and to preserve other Christmas dinner items in the UK. This is often a single-use material and so ends up in the bin pretty quickly

• 300 million straws and cups for guests will be used

• 125,000 tonnes of food packaging are thrown away

• The around of plastic waste discarded by Brits at Christmas equals the weight of 76,000 Giraffes!

• UK citizens eat about 1 million mince pies which cause an entire tonne of aluminium waste

• Nearly half (48%) of Britons say that they plan on reusing the gift bags they receive this year

• 100 million black bin bags filled with packaging waste from Christmas presents are chucked away each year

Christmas food waste facts

Another common source of waste during the holiday season is food. Whether it’s leftovers from a holiday feast or uneaten snacks and treats, food waste can be a major problem.

To reduce food waste, plan ahead and make a list of the foods you will need for your holiday meals. This will help you avoid buying too much food, which can save you money and reduce waste. You can also use leftovers to make new dishes, such as soups or sandwiches, or freeze them for future meals.

• 66% of Britons ‘overbuy’ on food at Christmas

• 42 million plates worth of food ends up in the bin in the UK during Christmas

• Around 10 million Turkeys are bought for consumption in Britain – the majority are never fully eaten

• 263,000 Turkeys are chucked away from either becoming spoiled, unpurchased, contaminated, or damaged

• How many times have you opened a tray of mince pies and they’ve all been eaten? Hardly ever right? We throw away 7.5 million mince pies every year

• Similarly, 740,000 portions of Xmas pudding are destined for the bin

• Everyone’s least favourite trimmings, sprouts are also binned on mass with 17.2 million uneaten Brussels headed to landfill

• 2 million kilograms of cheese are binned – that’s the equivalent of 2000 Great White Sharks

• 230,000 tonnes, or 460,000 Grand Pianos, of food ends up in the bin during the Christmas holidays

• 7.1 million Pigs in blankets are chucked – an absolutely ho ho horrendous fact

• Enough gravy to fill an entire Olympic-sized swimming pool is discarded (2.5 million litres)

• 11.9 million carrots and 11.3 million potatoes end up wasted

• Overspending on food at Christmas is an endemic made worse by the fact that 40% of Xmas food is on sale during the festive period – this encourages people to buy more than they need

• 425 million pints of beer are consumed during the holiday. That’s the equivalent of 57 full-sized Olympic stadiums filed up

• 500 million cans of soft drinks are purchased during the Christmas period. Half are never recycled.

Christmas recycling facts

In addition to reducing waste, there are also many ways to reuse and recycle materials during the holiday season. For example, you can use old greeting cards to make gift tags or decorations. Read our guide for more Christmas card recycling ideas.

You can also recycle your Christmas tree by using it as mulch in your garden or by taking it to a recycling centre. And if you have broken or damaged decorations, consider repurposing them or donating them to a local thrift store.

• Everyone loves a cuppa at Christmas but did you know that recycling just two tea bags can create enough electricity to fully charge a smartphone?

• Got another unwanted Lynx Africa deodorant for Christmas? Make sure you recycle the can.

• Recycling just one aerosol can save enough energy to power a home stereo speaker for 32 hours.

• Real Christmas trees are 100% recyclable and can be used for compost.

• This Christmas, Germany lead the way with a recycling rate of 67.1%, the UK lags behind at 42.9%

Reducing your Christmas waste

One of the best ways to reduce waste during the holiday season is to simply be mindful of your consumption.

This means thinking about the items you buy and whether you really need them, as well as considering the environmental impact of your choices.

By making conscious and sustainable choices, we can all help reduce waste and protect the environment during the holiday season and beyond.

How much does all this festive waste cost?

• Brits spend £700 million on gifts that go unwanted each year

• Only 1 in a hundred gifts will continue to be used 6 months after Christmas day

• The average household spends a whopping £185 on decorations

• 150 million cards are sent at Christmas. Hardly any are recycled

• It costs £26 million to dispose of all of the UK’s Christmas waste

• £1.2 million worth of decorations end up in landfill

• £444 million of food is wasted each year

• The average household spends £400 on food, drink, and decorations

Conclusion

In conclusion, the holiday season is a time for giving and celebration, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of the environment.

By making a few simple changes, we can reduce the amount of waste that is generated during Christmas and help protect the planet.

From using reusable gift bags and boxes to recycling and repurposing materials, there are many ways that we can celebrate the season in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way.

We’ve even given you over 20 ideas for sustainable Christmas gifts this year!

Merry Christmas ya filthy animals!

The post Christmas Waste Facts – Tis The Season To Recycle appeared first on Waste Management Services | Recycling | WasteManaged.

We have put together a selection of eco-friendly gifts from brands large and small who are doing their part – from ethical standards in manufacturing and transparency of the supply chain to using sustainable materials and minimising waste.

This Sustainable Gift Guide provides 21 examples of amazing, green gifts that you can impress the family with, all the while being ethical.

Once you have decided what type of gift you would like to give, do some research into sustainable brands.

Once you decide on a thoughtful gift, investigate a brand’s sustainable practices; they are often pretty easy to find, but you can always reach out to a retailer and ask them about how they are helping the planet if you are not sure.

When shopping for friends, partners, or family, really consider which gifts your friends would enjoy and then consider what options are available from there.

Before you purchase anything you should first ask yourself “Will they use it?” and “Will it still be relevant in the future?”.

Ensure that the gift will be valuable to the recipient long-term and it will hold its worth. 

Christmas Presents for the Great Outdoors

1. Flint Sticks

Not just a great survival tool for when you’re out away from civilisation, they will also help you to use less light fuel and plastic (if you buy disposables).

Every little helps and let’s be honest, they’re just more fun.

2. Eco-friendly sunscreens

As most sunscreens are harmful to marine ecosystems it might not be the best idea to take a dip in a lake once you’ve doused yourself in factor 50.

When you’re mixing those chemicals into the water, a lot of problems are created which may seem insignificant at first, but those substances linger and build up to the detriment of the wildlife living there.

Try to imagine a big fish coming crashing through your window covered in arsenic and you’ll get the image.

Luckily there are eco-friendly options available.

3. Deet-free insect repellant

As you know, insects are not a big fan of deet.

But when we’re spraying the chemical there can be friendly fire as deet is pretty harmful to fish, aquatic invertebrates and birds.

There are plenty of options out their which are deet free and can be just as effective. 

4. Solar Charger

A solar charger is a great gift for those who like spending long periods of time in the outdoors hiking, wild camping or even fishing.

This device will keep any electricals charged with natural energy (even if the clouds aren’t too thick).

So seeing your phone or GPS on its last bar of battery need not be of concern.

5. Reusable cutlery set

An ideal purchase for hikers who are conscious of waste and don’t want cutlery poking holes in their kit while out on a walk.

No need to depend on chopsticks.

If you want steak and eggs at the top of Ben Nevis then don’t let the cutlery hold you back. Good luck with the wind though.

Unique Biodegradable Christmas Gift Ideas

6. Organic loose tea leaf set

A great gift for someone who cares about their health as much as the environment.

Make use of a tea set that includes natural biodegradable wicker materials.

7. Elvis & Kresse Red Firehose Wallet

The wallet is made from environmentally friendly materials and is very durable.

The wallets are lined with reclaimed military parachute silk which has been saved from landfill.

8. Matamba Hanging Lines Planter

These swanky hanging planters have a unique black etched design that stands out.

The shape is ideal for small to medium-sized plants.

Sustainable Christmas Gifts for the Home

9. Repurposed Sari Patchwork Apron

Need a creative gift for the kitchen?

Do you have any sewing skills?

If your answer to both these questions is yes, then maybe you should try making use of any old fabrics or clothing you have to make an apron.

10. Stainless Steel Straws

A gift that could last a lifetime.

Something you can guarantee people will get use out of and they are easily cleanable.

11. Organic Turkish Cotton Bathrobes

An organic material bathrobe that comes in multiple shapes, sizes and thickness for warmer and colder periods.

No chemicals are used in the making of these robes and so if and when they are eventually disposed of they won’t cause pollution.

12. Reusable Sandwich Bags

Rather than rely on tin foil and cling-film you can seal your lunch in a reusable sandwich bag.

They’re really easy to clean and don’t take up any space.

Plus, they are not going to leak mustard all over your company laptop when in your bag!

13. Recycled Glass Carafe With Drinking Lid

An upcycled product made from recycled glass, especially if made by a family-run Fairtrade business providing income for a disadvantaged community.

Creative Environmentally-Friendly Clothing Ideas for Christmas

14. Socks That Plant Trees

By purchasing these socks you are contributing 1$ to an environmental cause (that’s 10 trees planted).

They are also made from cotton so they will last a long time and are biodegradable.

Gifts for Furry Friends

15. Dog lead and harness from recycled climbing rope

If you have any friends who love walking their dog then this could be a quirky option for them.

There are companies in the UK who build these products, or you can have a pop at making one yourself if you have any rope lying around.

16. Cat Basket

A basket can prove the perfect secluded sport for your furry little friend to curl up.

Made entirely from recycled plastic and sari fabric to form a comfortable material.

Eco-Friendly Christmas Decoration Ideas

17. Wooden Christmas tree ornaments

Wooden, unfinished ornaments and decorations are great options that can be used for a lifetime and even passed down through generations.

18. Personalised reusable table gift bag

Gift bags for the dinner table that can be altered freely to fit the individual.

19. A pair of holly trees

Adding these small trees to your home can make the space feel more festive.

20. Victorian Christmas Eco-Soya Candle

Made by hand with completely compostable materials these candles can make a good addition to someone’s home during the holidays.

21. Rosemary wreath decorations

Bind rosemary into a circle to resemble a small wreath which can be placed around the house.

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