Tag: carbon footprint Page 2 of 6

Do you find yourself setting New Year’s resolutions each year?

Surprisingly, only 27% of UK adults made resolutions, while nearly 39% of their counterparts in the US did, according to Statista.

However, a commitment to becoming more eco-friendly is notably missing from these lists.

It’s a missed opportunity because taking care of our planet is not just a noble cause but a necessity.

Without a sustainable environment, our goals and aspirations lose their significance. The urgency to address the climate crisis should be an integral part of our New Year’s resolutions.

In this post, I’ll unveil 10 simple and achievable resolutions for a more eco-friendly 2024.

These practical steps can be tailored to your circumstances, allowing you to start small and gradually build momentum. Join me in making a positive impact on our planet—one resolution at a time

Enlighten Your Eco-Consciousness Through Reading

Embarking on a journey of self-improvement begins with meaningful actions aligned with our individual values. Enter the gateway to significance: reading.

Incorporating reading into your routine offers a profound way to deepen your understanding of crucial topics like climate change and carbon footprints.

It’s a tool to unravel the complexities of the unknown, enabling you to see the bigger picture clearly.

photo of girl reading book — Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

To kickstart your eco-literary adventure, I’ve curated a climate change reading list, a valuable resource for anyone looking to delve into this critical subject.

The key here is not to rush but to savour the experience. Allocate just a few minutes each day—perhaps two to three pages—and let the knowledge gradually unfold.

Create a repository of insights that resonate with you, and, most importantly, integrate these learnings into your daily life.

After all, awareness cultivated through reading can transform your perspective, making you more conscious of the impact of your daily activities on greenhouse emissions and empowering you to take actionable steps to reduce your carbon footprint.

Stride into Sustainability: Walk or Cycle

Did you know that a simple shift from driving to walking or cycling one day a week can significantly reduce your carbon footprint?

A study by the University of Oxford’s Transport Studies Unit highlights this eco-friendly revelation.

Imagine the collective impact if everyone embraced this change – not only would greenhouse emissions plummet, but we’d also breathe cleaner air, save on petrol, and boost our physical well-being.

If just 10% of the population were to change travel behaviour, the emissions savings would be around 4% of lifecycle CO2 emissions from all car travel.
Dr Christian Brand

Living in a town or city? Make it a resolution to walk whenever possible.

I’ve personally adopted this approach, choosing to walk for short journeys, from town errands to visits with friends and family. I’ve even swapped weekend car trips for local walks, discovering hidden gems in my own neighbourhood and appreciating the natural beauty around me.

Hidden gems in my own neighbourhood

Let’s be mindful of our vehicle usage, considering the environmental repercussions of fuel consumption. Together, let’s step towards a sustainable future, one stride at a time.

Embrace Plant-Powered Eating

Did you know that what’s on your plate can play a pivotal role in combating climate change?

According to WWF, the meat and dairy industries contribute to a staggering 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Shifting towards a plant-based diet not only helps reduce this environmental burden but also has profound health benefits.

Research from the WHO Collaborating Centre for Nutrition and the University of Warwick reveals that a plant-based diet could cut diet-related land use by 76% and diet-related greenhouse gas emissions by 49%.

This dietary shift also champions water conservation, with just 1000 litres needed to produce 1 kg of grain compared to a staggering 43,000 litres for 1 kg of beef.

Concerned about getting enough nutrition on a plant-based diet? Fear not. Planning meals strategically and understanding the components of a balanced, healthy plant-based diet is the key.

I, for one, have experienced the transformative effects firsthand. Despite being a meat enthusiast in the past, eliminating meats and seafood from my diet has not only enhanced my well-being but also left me feeling younger and more energized.

Revitalize, Don’t Discard: Embrace Repair & Reuse

Not long ago, I was handed a Ninja 2-in-1 blender with a leaking issue. Rather than seeing it destined for the landfill, I welcomed the challenge.

Upon investigation, I discovered a missing gasket rubber sealing ring was the culprit. A simple replacement from Amazon and the blender was as good as new.

person holding box end wrench — Photo by Julia Schmidt on Pexels.com

This experience underscored the power of repairing and reusing items. It’s a commitment to extending the lifespan of our possessions, showcasing a genuine concern for the resources invested in their production and a dedication to curbing waste.

With the global impact of waste on all living creatures’ environment, health, and habitats, reducing our waste footprint becomes paramount.

Let’s break free from the ‘out of sight, out of mind’ mentality. Our waste doesn’t vanish; it accumulates in landfills, releasing pollutants into the air, water, and soil.

As waste decomposes, it generates harmful greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to global warming. Join the movement of revitalizing, not discarding, and make a lasting impact on our planet.

Make Composting Your Sustainable Resolution

Tackling waste, especially kitchen and garden refuse, can be achieved through composting—a practice with a multitude of benefits:

Waste reduction: Composting significantly cuts down on overall waste.
Chemical-Free gardening: Less reliance on chemical pests and fertilizers for a healthier, more natural approach to gardening.
Carbon emission reduction: By repurposing kitchen waste, we contribute to reducing carbon emissions associated with landfill disposal.
Enhanced soil health: Compost enriches soil with organic matter, fostering fertility and improving overall health.
Water retention: Plants thrive in compost-rich soil, retaining water more efficiently.
Cost savings: Composting at home saves money on store-bought soil improvers or compost.

Starting your composting journey doesn’t require fancy equipment.

I made my compost bin from spare blocks found in my garden, creating a simple rectangle with a space in the middle for composting. Covering the top with a patio tile, while optional, helps regulate rainwater intake.

Concerned about odours? No worries!

Properly layered and turned every two or three weeks, a compost pile remains odour-free. Begin your composting adventure in the new year—a small step for you, a giant leap for sustainable living!

Find Strength in Like-Minded Communities

Embarking on the journey of environmental advocacy can sometimes feel isolating.

Consider Greta Thunberg, the Swedish environmental activist who initially stood alone in her school strike for the climate crisis in 2018.

Despite facing scepticism and pity from passersby, Greta’s determination attracted others to her cause, eventually leading to the formation of ‘Fridays for Future‘—a global movement that raised awareness about climate-related issues.

If you find yourself as the lone climate warrior in your social circles, seek out and join like-minded communities.

Just as Greta found strength in solidarity, these communities offer support, shared ideas, and a platform for collective growth and learning. Numerous climate action groups on social media platforms are open for public participation.

Beyond the virtual realm, actively engage with local communities for a more tangible sense of belonging, fostering the ability to tackle challenges together as a united team.

Make Conscious Choices to Fly Less

Consider the frequency of your flights each year, particularly those for leisure.

While my company minimizes overseas business trips, I used to embark on two to three-holiday flights annually.

However, a shift has occurred in recent years. Opting for only one long-haul flight to my home country, I embraced staycations for the rest of the year.

It’s crucial to recognize the environmental impact of the aviation industry, which is responsible for over 850 million tonnes of yearly carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, constituting around 2% of global CO2 emissions.

Yet, CO2 isn’t the sole concern; airports contribute to water pollution and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) emissions from aircraft and ground vehicles, accompanied by noise pollution affecting surrounding communities.

A simple yet impactful resolution is to curtail air travel, which can slash your carbon footprint by up to 50% annually.

While the allure of cheap flight tickets may be tempting, the hidden cost—the harm inflicted on our planet—should give us pause before booking that next flight.

Embrace Conscious Consumerism

As the holiday shopping season tempts us with the latest gadgets, it’s worth reflecting on our buying habits.

Perhaps you’ve indulged in new devices, only to realize your older versions are still functional. I’ve been there, upgrading phones, tablets, and earphones when the older ones were perfectly fine.

This cycle changed when I grasped the environmental toll of consumerism, particularly over-consumption—the act of acquiring things we don’t truly need. This behaviour depletes natural resources and contributes to Earth’s pollution.

Enter the insight from the author of the book ‘How Bad are Bananas?: The Carbon Footprint of Everything,’ who argues that everything has a carbon footprint, and secondhand items are no exception.

Recognizing this, buying less isn’t just financially savvy; it’s environmentally responsible.

Most everyday products come swathed in plastic packaging or are composed of plastic, contributing to pollution.

Before making a purchase, ask yourself: Do I genuinely need it, or is it a fleeting desire? Be honest, liberate yourself from unnecessary financial burdens, and contribute to a healthier planet.

Conserve Energy for a Greener Future

How often do you leave lights on in empty rooms or ignore that persistent tap drip?

As we approach the new year, let’s collectively become more attuned to our home energy consumption—be it lights, water, or heating. A mindful reduction in energy usage not only conserves resources but also decreases the burning of fossil fuels.

Embarking on this energy-saving journey can begin with simple steps:

Illuminate responsibly: Switch to energy-efficient LEDs.
Light discipline: Turn off lights upon leaving a room and power down standby appliances overnight.
Tackle leaks: Address any dripping taps in your home and garden.
Waste not, want not: Reuse kitchen water for plants and hand-washing water to flush the toilet.
Temperature tune-up: Ensure optimal room temperature settings during winter.

For those ready to invest, consider installing double-glazed windows or wall insulation to enhance home energy efficiency and reduce your carbon footprint.

By adopting these practices, we contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.

Embrace Progress, Not Perfection

The pursuit of perfection often paralyzes us from taking the first step toward positive change. The reality is that no one has mastered anything from day one.

The quest for perfection sets unrealistic expectations, leading to frustration and demotivation, ultimately deterring us from initiating our goals for the new year.

Climate action demands a serious commitment, making it all the more vital to shift our focus from unattainable perfection to practical day-to-day actions.

We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly
Anne Marie Bonneau, Zero Waste Chef

Taking a stance against climate change requires reflection on our daily routines and a commitment to adjusting them for eco-friendliness. It’s the ongoing process of learning, doing, and reflecting that truly makes a difference.

In the pursuit of a sustainable new year, let’s cast aside the shackles of perfectionism. Recognize that small, consistent actions contribute significantly to caring for the Earth and cultivating a more sustainable future.

Progress, not perfection, is the key to lasting change.

woman in white button up shirt holding white ceramic plate

Cooking Green: Is HelloFresh a Sustainable Choice

By Rachel

On December 6, 2023

In Eco-friendly lifestyle

Are you part of the HelloFresh fan club, eagerly awaiting those weekly culinary surprises at your doorstep?

I was too. I hopped on the HelloFresh train a while back, more for the promise of delicious dinners than any eco-friendly considerations.

But hold on a sec – have you ever thought about the environmental side of this meal kit adventure?

I sure didn’t at first.

Now, armed with a fresh perspective and a renewed HelloFresh subscription, I’ve decided to take a closer look at what’s inside those neatly packed HelloFresh boxes.

Join me on this journey of unpacking not just recipes but also the eco-friendly side of HelloFresh.

Let’s see if our favourite meal kit is as kind to the planet as it is to our taste buds!

An unpacked HelloFresh food box — My HelloFresh food box delivered

HelloFresh – Berlin Roots, Global Growth

Established in Berlin, Germany, in 2011, HelloFresh has evolved from a local gem into a publicly traded meal-kit company with a global presence.

At the heart of HelloFresh is its revolutionary meal kit delivery service, a boon for home cooks.

Picture this: chef-approved recipes and precisely measured ingredients arriving at your doorstep, essentially a personal sous chef, eliminating the hassles of planning and shopping.

What sets HelloFresh apart is its recipe for home-cooking success: a world of diverse and tasty recipes, straightforward cooking instructions, and simplicity.

The convenience of finding everything neatly packed in a single box can transform kitchen novices into confident home chefs.

Not to mention, their service operates on a subscription basis, ensuring a steady supply of culinary inspiration right to your door.

Rediscovery and Renew

HelloFresh popped up on my radar thanks to TV and social media ads, especially their slick YouTube promos.

Flashback to 2015, my first stint with HelloFresh. Fast forward to now, their ads sparked a thought: ‘Can meal kits help me cut down on driving to the store and be greener?’

A quick website check revealed that HelloFresh is diving deep into sustainability. From supply chain tweaks to Paris Climate Agreement alignment and precise ingredient measurements to cut waste – they’re on it.

Plus, they’re promising innovative packaging.

Impressive bonus: their ‘climate conscious‘ recipes slash carbon emissions by 2/3 compared to the usual. HelloFresh isn’t just about meals; it’s about aligning with my eco-cooking vibe.

So, with a nod to green cooking and a company that vibes with my sustainability tune, I thought, why not? HelloFresh, here I come again!

How HelloFresh Works

New to the HelloFresh scene? Let’s break down the steps:

Customizing your meal plan

Choose the meal type that suits you: options like meat & veggie, veggie, family-friendly, fit & wholesome, quick & easy, and pescatarian. (Note: options might vary based on the country you’re in.)
Specify your plan size: Are you cooking for 2 or 4?
Select the number of meals per week: Options range from 2 to 6.

Recipe preferences

Once HelloFresh has your plan details, their system suggests recipes tailored to your preferences.
Dive in and choose the specific recipes you’d like to be delivered.

HelloFresh recipes — Screenshot of the recipes from my HelloFresh order.
*Image credit: HelloFresh.co.uk.*

Extras, anyone?

Feeling fancy? Add side dishes or desserts to spice things up.

Weekly subscription

Signing up means you’re in for the weekly subscription ride.
Unless you hit pause, expect weekly charges. You’ll also get a prompt to choose recipes and your delivery day.

That’s how HelloFresh works – easy, flexible, and a neatly prepacked meal kit delivered to your doorstep every week.

Unpacking the Boxes: A Closer Look

So, the HelloFresh box arrived right on schedule, and I have to say, I’m a fan of simplicity. No unnecessary packaging or flashy colours – just a solid, sturdy box, which suits me just fine.

Upon cracking it open, my initial impression was positive.

Three recipe cards greeted me, listing ingredients, required cooking tools, nutrition values, and allergens. Plus, a pleasant surprise – the cards are FSC certified, a nod to sustainability.

Next up, three paper-packed bags, each neatly labelled with a recipe number matching the cards. Perfect coordination for my veggie plan, designed for two people with three meals per week.

In the mix, there’s an insulated bag, essential for keeping certain ingredients cool. I’m definitely not a big fan of the plastic layer, but I guess it’s for food safety.

Now, let’s dive into the bags. I have mixed feelings here, but let’s start with the positives:

Some whole foods like aubergine, yellow peppers, garlic, and lime are plastic-free.
The fresh whole foods look, well, fresh.
Two ingredients: chopped tomatoes and tofu, get the cardboard treatment, avoiding unnecessary plastic.

But here comes the negatives:

The enthusiasm wanes as I spot too many single-use plastics wrapping pre-measured sauces, chopped veggies, and fresh salads.
Potatoes, a no-fuss vegetable, shouldn’t find themselves in plastic bags.
While I subscribed for high-protein recipes, the ingredient lineup appears to lean towards higher carbs, which may not be optimal for regulating blood sugar.

Unpack HelloFresh food box and all the ingredients come in the HelloFresh box — *All the ingredients come in my HelloFresh box.*

Now, let’s talk extras. The box brought along gift vouchers, leaflets, and a magazine. While I appreciate the thought, it might be worth letting customers opt out, saving the environment from potential recycling bin fate.

As much as I’m aware of HelloFresh trying to cut down the use of plastic in their packaging, I can’t help but feel guilty about having so much single-use plastic in just one delivery box.

And some paper packaging and paper materials aren’t eco-friendly either!

This time, I’m already starting to consider cancelling the plan.

Cooking the Recipes: A HelloFresh Taste Test

Despite my packaging concerns, I’m ready to dive into these recipes and see if HelloFresh can still win me over. Here’s the lineup I’ve got:

Veggie moussaka with lentils and garlic ciabatta
Fragrant veg noodle stir-fry with mushrooms, tender stem, and peanuts
Sweet chilli tofu and roasted pepper burger

Veggie moussaka with lentils & garlic ciabatta

Veg noodle stir-fry with mushrooms, tender stem, & peanuts — Veggie moussaka with lentils & garlic ciabatta

First off, props to the recipes for not demanding a chopping marathon. The step-by-step instructions on the recipe cards are a breeze to follow.

And can we talk about portion sizes?

Generous is an understatement – my husband and I, not exactly small eaters, still ended up with lunch leftovers for one.

Now, here’s a reality check on cooking time. It seems tailored for the kitchen regulars.

For those who seldom venture into home-cooking territory, add 10 minutes to the suggested time on the card.

Taste, unfortunately, takes a dip. Each dish wrapped up a bit too saucy for my liking.

I’m all for flavour, but an excess of sauce raises some health flags – we’re talking potential sugar, salt, or oil overload!

Sure, it might be the recipes I picked, but a quick visit to the HelloFresh recipe hub reveals a saucy trend in many non-meat dishes.

Final Verdict: Is HelloFresh a Keeper?

So, the million-dollar question: Will I stick around for more HelloFresh culinary adventures?

In short, no, and the deciding factor is the plastic overload in just one delivery box.

Let’s talk sauce sachets – those little flavour boosters come with a hefty environmental cost.

Each recipe comes with at least two to three sauce sachets, resulting in a staggering eight single-use plastics for the three recipes in my HelloFresh food box.

Mind you, that count excludes the plastics wrapping potatoes, buns, dry egg noodles, and a trio of other whole food ingredients.

It’s a plastic overload that’s a bit too much for my eco-conscious soul!

Sure, HelloFresh claims to be on a packaging innovation spree, minimizing unnecessary materials and even teaming up with the Plastic Bank to battle plastic pollution. They’ve got initiatives, no doubt.

But from where I stand as a conscious customer, there’s room for improvement.

How about letting us opt out of sauce sachets if our pantry is already stocked? Maybe throw in a discount as an incentive?

Here’s another thought: why not engage customers in surveys focusing on cutting down plastic use, even in those seemingly innocent paper bags?

After all, paper production contributes to deforestation, a major player in the global warming game.

Inside the HelloFresh food box - An insulated bag and three bags labelled with a recipe number each — An insulated bag and three bags labelled with a recipe number each

If it were just a matter of taste, I’d be open to giving HelloFresh another shot with different recipes.

However, the prospect of another plastic-packed box on my doorstep led me to hit the cancel button on my subscription.

Wrapping Up: Navigating Sustainability in Everyday Choices

In the rush of everyday life, HelloFresh beckons to those who crave homemade goodness minus the grocery hassle.

It’s a time-saver for the busy, a tutor for kitchen newcomers, and a solution for those dodging takeouts and processed fare.

No doubt, HelloFresh delivers on its promise of convenience, cutting down food waste as each ingredient is precisely measured and bringing tasty and somewhat healthy meals to our doorstep. It’s a tempting offer that clicks with many.

Yet, as we revel in the ease, it’s worth pausing to think: should our comfort mean contributing to plastic and paper pollution?

It’s a question each of us must honestly answer for ourselves, weighing the convenience against the environmental impact.

I’ve made my decision to stick with my usual way – shop local, buy in bulk when appropriate, and say no to single-use plastics!

The journey towards a more sustainable future begins with the choices we make today!

Watch the HelloFresh Unboxing & Review Video

How Eco-Friendly is HelloFresh?

Sustainable Holiday Season Shopping: 5 Pitfalls & 5 Must-Do Tips

By Rachel

On November 27, 2023

In Eco-friendly lifestyle

As the festive season approaches in most Western nations, we’re gearing up for the holiday shopping extravaganza—Christmas, Boxing Day, and the inevitable January sales.

Whether you’re on a gift-hunting spree for loved ones or treating yourself to a little indulgence, the big question is: Can we all shop more sustainably this time around?

My approach to shopping, especially when it came to buying gifts, used to be pretty straightforward—I’d quickly run through a mental checklist:

Will the recipient like it?
Is it convenient to buy?
Does it fit within my budget?

Being an eco-conscious shopper wasn’t exactly on my radar. But I’ve transformed!

Instead of chasing convenience or seeking out the best deals, I’m making a conscious effort to prioritize sustainability and ethics in my holiday shopping journey.

In fact, I’ve come to realize that I’m more than willing to invest extra time and money if it means making choices that are good for the environment. It’s a shift in mindset that brings me here today, excited to delve into the realm of conscious consumerism and share not just the ‘what’ but the ‘how’.

So, in this article, join me as I outline 5 Don’ts and 5 Do’s, guiding you through the process of purchasing eco-friendly presents and embracing the role of a conscious consumer.

Don’t discard: give purpose to already-bought gifts

Don’t part ways with the gifts you’ve already snagged for the upcoming holiday season. Whether you dove into early January sales or got a head start on your festive shopping, hang on to those purchases, even if they don’t quite meet eco-friendly standards.

Consider the journey these items took—from concept to creation, involving a complex process and a variety of resources.

person in white shirt and red pants holding white boxes — Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva on Pexels.com

The production of any product entails stages, each demanding human, material, and natural resources.

Commutes to work, the creation of materials like paper, aluminium, iron, and copper, plus the utilization of water, fossil fuels, and electricity—all contribute to the product’s environmental footprint.

Discarding these brand-new items prematurely only adds an unnecessary burden on our planet, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

If the thought of gifting non-eco-friendly items doesn’t sit well with you, consider alternatives. Donate them to charities or share the joy by giving them to neighbours or those in need for free.

Remember, one person’s discard could be another’s cherished find.

Don’t buy any shiny packaging

When it comes to gift-giving, the allure of shiny packaging is hard to resist. But before you succumb to the sparkle, take a moment.

That stack of wrapping papers, gift bags, ribbons, bows, tags, and cards from last year? Give them a second life before rushing to buy anything new. Unused items gathering dust on the shelf won‘t bring joy to anyone.

And if you must buy, steer clear of the glittery, sparkly, or shiny options. Shockingly, many types of wrapping paper can’t be recycled due to plastic coatings, foil, or glossy finishes.

person wrapping white box — Photo by Cottonbro Studio on Pexels.com

In the UK alone, a whopping 300,000 tonnes of card packaging—weighing as much as 2 million reindeer—are generated during the holidays. Unfortunately, over 80% of it ends up in landfills, slowly degrading and harming the environment, including our oceans and marine life.

Opt for recyclable packaging; many products now feature a recyclable sign, including holiday cards and wrapping materials.

But beware of aspirational recycling—remove any tape from used wrapping papers before recycling to avoid doing more harm than good.

Don’t forget, you don’t always need fancy packaging. Get creative!

Use everyday items like newspapers, leaflets, tea towels, jars, tins, reusable bags, and even snack bags to wrap your gifts. Check out the video below for some inspiring ideas!

Don’t buy products with excess packaging

In the world of shopping, less is definitely more!

Buying over-packaged products might seem convenient, but it translates to more layers of waste.

Sure, recycling is an option, but let’s not forget the golden trio of waste management: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. The eco-savvy move? Start by refusing to buy goods drowning in unnecessary packaging.

Think about it—do you want to pay for the real deal or for the excessive layers of wrapping?

Imagine if price tags detailed the cost of the product versus the cost of its extravagant packaging. The basic protective layer is necessary, but what about the excess? Not so much.

As conscious consumers, let’s resist the allure of beautiful, extravagant packaging. It’s akin to single-use plastics—once the gifts are unveiled, the packaging is headed straight for the bin, and most of it can’t be recycled.

Let’s be smart shoppers—opt for products that flaunt their substance, not their excess wrapping.

Don’t get greenwashed

When it comes to eco-conscious shopping, beware of the term ‘greenwash‘.

It’s when companies or organiastions toss around misleading statements about their environmental efforts to make their products appear ethical, sustainable, or eco-friendly.

It’s a sneaky game of smoke and mirrors meant to entice unsuspecting customers.

When you’re out shopping, keep an eagle eye on buzzwords that might be laced with greenwashing magic—terms like green, organic, all-natural, eco-friendly, non-toxic, biodegradable, and more. These labels aren’t just descriptions; they’re marketing strategies to sell you more.

Fortunately, some certifications can be trusted to separate the green from the greenwashed. Look out for logos like Certified B Corporation, Fairtrade International, RSPO, FSC, Soil Association (organic), EcoCert, and more.

These certifications aren’t just for show—they involve rigorous third-party audits, holding companies accountable.

Source: Wikipedia

If you’re wondering how to verify a company’s green claims without these certifications, fret not. Apps like Good On You, Impact Score, and Beat the MicroBead (fight plastics in cosmetics) are your tech-savvy allies.

They simplify the verification process, providing you with valuable insights into a brand’s environmental practices.

For those who prefer a human touch, pick up the phone and ask the company directly about their sustainability efforts.

The fact: Greenwashing is illegal in the UK. Businesses must comply with the Green Claims Code published by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). If you suspect a company is up to greenwashing shenanigans, don’t hesitate to report it to the CMA.

Don’t get overwhelmed

Ah, the holiday pressure to find that perfect gift—it can be downright stressful, especially during Christmas. The desire to express love and appreciation to our family and friends often adds to the frenzy.

But here’s a gentle reminder: the holiday season is about more than just the perfect present.

It’s a time to bask in the warmth of loved ones, creating memories and cherishing the moments spent together. Keep your feet on the ground and let the true essence of the season guide you.

Consider this: if your family and friends genuinely care about you, they wouldn’t want you to break the bank or stretch yourself thin in pursuit of the ideal gift.

A thoughtful gesture means more to them than the price tag. Plus, choosing sustainable gifts can open the door to a more eco-friendly lifestyle for your loved ones.

Imagine gifting:

A shampoo soap bar instead of shampoo in plastic bottles
A shower body brush made of natural fibre brushes instead of plastic
Wood cookware instead of plastic cookware
Toys made of wood that are certified by FSC instead of plastic
Loose tea in non-plastic packaging instead of tea bags full of microplastics

2 shampoo soap bars and a shampoo bottle — shampoo soap bar

As you present these eco-friendly gifts, share the ‘why‘—explain the importance of avoiding plastics whenever possible. You might be surprised to find that your family and friends share the same environmental concerns.

So, don’t let the gift-hunting chaos overshadow the true joy of the season. Keep it simple, thoughtful, and filled with the spirit of togetherness.

Do plan ahead & shop by eco-values

Planning ahead isn’t just about beating the holiday rush; it’s your secret weapon for curating meaningful and creative gifts.

In the whirlwind of time constraints, convenience often takes the lead, and the essence of thoughtful gifting can be lost.

By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.
Benjamin Franklin

Take a moment to envision the perfect eco-friendly gift. What matters most in your sustainability journey—animal rights, workers’ rights, carbon neutrality, business giving back, or the elimination of plastics?

Reflect on these values, and align your purchases accordingly. Aim for products that prioritize that value. If they happen to embrace other aspects of your eco-values, consider it a delightful bonus!

It’s all about making intentional choices that echo your convictions!

So, dive into your eco-values, plan with purpose, and let your gifts speak volumes about the values you hold dear.

Do buy secondhand

Embrace the thrill of the hunt—buying secondhand, especially from charity shops, is a triple win. It’s a nod to the environment, a pat on your wallet, and a meaningful contribution to a good cause.

My personal treasure trove includes unique clothing and kitchenware finds that breathe character into my space—pieces I’d never stumble upon in mainstream stores.

Here’s the beauty of it: there’s nothing amiss about snagging secondhand gems from charity shops or online thrift stores and turning them into thoughtful gifts.

The quality of secondhand goods today is remarkable—some are practically brand new or gently used. I call them preloved items, each with a story waiting to be continued by a new owner.

Beyond the personal touch, choosing used over new has a ripple effect. It slashes the likelihood of items ending up in landfills and curtails CO2 emissions.

For example: gifting a used cookbook to a friend could cut carbon emissions by one-fifth if more of us opt for preloved books over brand-new ones.

And for the perfect finishing touch, consider grabbing Christmas cards and wrapping paper from charity shops—another way to support charitable endeavours.

Do try DIY gifts

There’s nothing quite like the magic of a DIY gift—it’s the embodiment of personal touch and thoughtfulness.

When you handcraft a present, you’re not just gifting an item; you’re giving someone a piece of your heart. It’s a gesture that says, ‘You’re extra special to me’, leaving behind a sentimental memory.

If the vast world of DIY seems overwhelming, start with something simple and heartwarming—like handmade festive cards. I cherish the ones I’ve received; each is a unique expression of warmth and care.

close up shot of a person making a christmas card — Photo by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels.com

When venturing into the realm of handmade gifts, consider your strengths.

Are you a master of homemade jams, biscuits, or cakes? Package them up as delightful presents. However, be mindful of taste preferences and allergies, especially when crafting consumable gifts.

If arts and crafts are more your speed—whether it’s knitting, pottery, ceramics, perfume, or jewelry making—create a gift that aligns with your family/friends’ taste in art or decor. Your creation could become a beautiful, personalised addition to their cosy home.

Alternatively, consider crafting a family photo album, a nostalgic treasure, especially for grandparents who appreciate printed photos over digital images.

Do experience gifts – creating lasting memories

Unlock the power of memories with experience gifts—gifts that offer more than just an item, but a profound, lasting experience.

Whether it’s a spa day, theatre tickets, National Trust gift cards, or online class memberships, experience gifts leave an indelible mark.

Research backs what many already feel: people often cherish experience gifts over material ones. Why? Because they foster a stronger social connection, cultivating a memorable relationship between the giver and the recipient.

But here’s a twist—have you ever considered being the creator of an experience gift?

Picture this: offering a personalized photo-shoot session if you’re a photography enthusiast or bringing the spa experience home if you’re skilled in massage therapy. Simple yet meaningful gestures like looking after your friends’ pets during a long holiday can be a cherished experience in itself.

You don’t have to break the bank for experience gifts. Instead, tap into your unique skills to gift your family and friends moments that will be etched in their hearts.

Do have a self-care routine: your fuel for thoughtful giving

In the hustle of gift-giving, self-care may seem unrelated, but it’s your vital weapon for aligning actions with values.

If you’re not kind to yourself, meeting others’ needs and championing sustainability becomes a challenging feat.

Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.
Eleanor Brown

Even if it’s just five or ten minutes a day, carve out time for yourself.

Slow down, savor your favorite cuppa, flip through a few pages of your go-to magazine, stretch your body, meditate, or take a brisk walk around the block for a breath of fresh air.

It’s not just a break; it’s a simple act of kindness to refill your mental and physical energy, leaving you ready to tackle whatever the day throws your way.

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s the foundation for thoughtful and sustainable giving.

Save the Planet & Live Sustainably