It's the most wonderful time of the year, but it's also the most wasteful time of the year. According to the National Environmental Education Foundation, the amount of trash in the United States increases by approximately 25% between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Which is why we rounded up a few ways for you to have (or try your best to have) a zero-waste Christmas this year.
Plan your meals (size-wise) accordingly. While we all enjoy leftovers, we all know that the chances of us eating those mashed potatoes 2-3 days after are unikely. Plan all of your cooking accordingly; if you're only cooking for a small number of people, don't make an exuberant amount of mashed potatoes - or any other dish. Be mindful!
Write detailed shopping lists. Make sure your grocery list contains the amounts required. Do you really need multiple containers of cranberry sauce, or can you do fine with just one?
Shop local and in season. Shopping from your local farmers' market, can curb greenhouse gas emissions. Opt to get your produce from the market rather than the grocery store.
Use sustainable home goods at your table. Avoid single-use plastics like disposable plates and tableware. There are plenty of sustainable options available for cutlery, plates, bowls, and drinkware.
Opt for fewer gifts for fewer people. Giving gifts isn't an obligation; it's a choice. Maybe instead of getting gifts for every single family member, you can try a white elephant or secret Santa instead.
Be conscious of the packaging. Avoid presents that come in single-use plastics and opt for eco-friendly wrapping paper.
