Celebrate With Care: Tips for a Sustainable Holiday Season
BY: Leard Corinne
The holiday season is often filled with excitement, joy, and the spirit of giving. But in all the enthusiasm, the amount of waste created and its impact on the environment is often overlooked. Here are some tips for a sustainable holiday season to make this the most wonderful time of the year for both the people you love and for our blue planet:
1. USE ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY WRAPPING.
Reuse wrapping paper, bags, and tags when possible, and choose fabric ribbons over single-use plastic ones.
2. AVOID SINGLE-USE DECOR.
Ditch disposable decorations like glitter or flimsy plastic decorations that will be thrown away after the holiday season. Instead, consider upcycling old decorations or making DIY decor by using natural decor like fallen pinecones or turning old paper into paper snowflakes.
3. PLAN NATURE-THEMED ACTIVITIES.
If gathering with family and friends, organize engaging activities that foster a sense of environmental responsibility and educate children about the importance of ocean conservation. You could set up a craft station where kids can create their own ocean-inspired masterpieces using recycled materials (which could also make great gifts) or turn a beach cleanup into a fun activity by organizing a scavenger hunt.
4. MINIMIZE PLASTIC IN HOLIDAY PARTY HOSTING.
Choose food and drink options that minimize single-use plastic consumption. Serve snacks on reusable platters or opt for sustainable packaging alternatives and opt for reusable cups and cutlery rather than single-use plastic ones.
5. GIVE ECO-FRIENDLY GIFTS.
Consider making your own presents from upcycled materials. You can also make a gift donation to charity in somebody’s name, or shop Oceana’s online store for environmentally friendly presents that help protect and restore the world’s oceans.
The holidays are a special time to celebrate and reflect on our values. By making small, ocean-friendly choices, we can protect the environment while embracing the true spirit of the season. Here’s to a joyful, sustainable holiday season!