A complete guide to a planning a low waste holiday.

This guide is full of the best, real-life ways to prepare for a zero waste Christmas and offer ideas to carry all throughout the year. This is a detailed guide to zero waste gift giving and will take you about 30 minutes to read unless you are a speed reader. Bookmark this article and come back to it as a reminder of the many areas to consider for your gift giving season. Feel free to browse the bold headings to read the topics you feel best fit your needs right now.  

If you are looking for ways to reduce waste this holiday season, then you’re reading the right article. There are plenty of ways to celebrate using zero waste concepts and creativity that will not consume all your time or cost you extra cash. 

Here are some tips to help you get started.

Planning is key!  

 This may seem obvious, and it is the easiest part to overlook – but do NOT skip this part and start the planning as soon as you finish reading this. Open a note on your phone or grab a piece of paper right now and brain dump the ideas that come to you while reading this. I guarantee you’ll have some good ones! 

First, make a list of all the people you know you want to give a gift to. You may add more people alter, for now, just start building the list.  

Whether it’s the Christmas in July parties, or simply getting ahead on your holiday gift list, planning is key to a successful and eco-friendly Christmas season. Shopping second-hand or from bulk stores can cut down on waste, help you find unique gifts, and save you money – all while helping to do your part for the planet!  

You can also explore unusual gift ideas such as zero waste presents or socially conscious items that will make great impressions while spreading the message of sustainability. If you prefer second-hand shopping online, do a few minutes of poking around online at online to see what types of items are being sold there, you might be really surprised to see all the cool items people sell for pennies on the dollar. Making a list of useful gifts and store names of secondhand sources can help keep you on track to start to buy items for your thoughtful Christmas gift giving. 

Why do Christmas in July? 

Planning for a zero waste Christmas is about how you can get the most enjoyment during the holidays, and not running around trying to find the ‘right’ gift or ingredients. A bit of planning each month, starting in July, will blow your mind when you get to sit down and enjoy the holidays, not be a slave to them.  

Decorations are easy to come by second hand, especially during the spring and summer. Check out social media marketplaces, your local charity shop, or a Freecycle group. Starting your décor hunt in July lets you avoid the rush in November. Many people do not even think about planning for Christmas decorations until Thanksgiving rolls around and by then it can be too late to find the best deals. 

With the festivity of Christmas seeming always around the corner, it is never too early to start keeping a list of what you want. Party accessories to glam up your food presentation? Getting the right look for your Christmas tree? Finding the right outfit for your niece? We all have different goals for the holidays, so keep yours in focus to help you maximize your time and money. Scouring secondhand shops or Freecycle groups is a terrific way to find the perfect decorations, serving platter, sparkly dress, stylish hats – it is endless!  

 PRO TIP>>> 
Spending as little as 1 hour a month, 15-minutes per week – jotting down your goals, plans, thoughts, and perspective shopping locations is worth it. This strategy can even be done while watching your favorite show, and that’s time well spent now to avoid the crowds and craziness later.

Choosing the right gift.  

Think about what the recipient would appreciate and really use not what you wish they would want. If you keep this in mind, your gifts will always hit the mark.  

Finding the right environmentally friendly gift can feel stressful, especially during the holiday season. Instead of scrambling to find something suitable and affordable, it is worth considering zero waste gift options that are both thoughtful and readily available. Those gifts can be made yourself or sourced from eco-friendly companies. We will go over that too in this article. 

Buy it or make it.  

Making something homemade is ideal, such as food, artwork, or even knitwear, as these zero waste Christmas gifts feel more personal and mean more to the recipient than shop-bought presents. If you are not into crafting and DIY, purchase zero waste products from eco-friendly companies who prioritize sustainability. A quick search for zero waste companies and waste free products will reveal many, too many, businesses focused on natural and low waste products.  

And if you really want to make the gift hit list, consider giving your loved ones an unforgettable experience – like a day out at a theme park or tickets for the theatre – instead of physical gifts. 

Gift wrapping ideas. 

Considering the gift packaging is usually an afterthought, let us look at ways to bring more sustainable packaging practices to giving gifts. We don’t need to compromise our cherished custom of gifting during the holiday season. We just need to think about it from a different angle. Gift wrapping produces an immense quantity of waste, so it is up to us to produce innovative DIY ideas for alternatives. You can go beyond by using recyclable paper or containers, or simply opt not to wrap your presents at all – the choice is entirely yours!   

When it comes to waste-free Christmas celebrations, one of the smartest decisions you can make is reusing your decorations year after year. Not only are Christmas lights long lasting, but wrapping paper and ribbons can be used again if handled carefully while unwrapping gifts. Alternatively, you could also invest in sustainable fabric gift wraps that last multiple years!  

To be eco-friendly, the best practice is to save and reuse your gift bags and boxes. If you need to buy new paper for wrapping gifts, try choosing an environmentally friendly variety. Regular wrapping paper is often treated with dyes or inks that make it difficult to recycle – so opt for something kinder!  

Wrapping to avoid! 

When planning for a zero waste Christmas, be mindful to avoid wrapping paper that is glittery, foil-coated, metallic, or laminated. Gift tags need not be purchased; you can craft them from your own holiday cards! And while cellophane and tinsel cannot be recycled, opt instead for recyclable tissue paper as an ecofriendly alternative. 

Two creative low waste wrapping ideas. 

1. Kraft or paper bags. Use paper bags and let the kids draw holiday inspired images on the bags using crayons or markers. Avoid decorating with stickers, when possible, as glue and paper are not accepted at curbside recycling. 

1. Learn an ancient gift-wrapping technique that is sure to impress your gift recipient! The technique is called Furoshiki.
   
   

   Furoshiki gift wrapping technique using cloth

Originating around 710 B.C., Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping cloth that is eco-friendly. It is mostly used for wrapping gifts, carrying goods or just as a decoration. The art and technique of wrapping goods and gifts using cloth and fabric instead of wrapping paper is called furoshiki. 

To further raise environmental awareness and reduce plastic pollution, in 2006, Japan’s Minister of Environment Yuriko Koike to actively promoted the use of traditional furoshiki cloth.  

If you are an anime fan, chances are that you have seen several instances where Japanese schoolkids and even grown-ups wield these wraps to transport their bento boxes. 

More zero waste gift wrapping options! 

If you are looking for creative alternatives to traditional gift-wrapping paper, look at the list below.  

• Have some fun with comic sections of newspapers and pages pulled out of magazines!  
• Use leftover fabrics from quilting and sewing projects as well as scarves. 
• Old maps look amazing as gift wrap paper! 
• Upcycling old t-shirts or dresses too;
  

  using old maps for wrapping paper

All these are great ways to add that extra special attention your loved ones will appreciate! 

Skip the gift wrapping. 

You can make things easier by not wrapping gifts at all. Some people think it is a tradition to wrap gifts, but you can start a new tradition of ‘naked’ gifts or zero waste gifts. This means not using any extra materials like wrapping paper, ribbon, or cards.  

Does that tray of cookies you are hand delivering really need a card? Does the jar of homemade hot chocolate need a bow? 

Ask yourself if the gift really needs to be wrapped before you do it. 

Strategic zero waste holiday shopping skills. 

A little planning goes a long way in reducing waste during the holidays. Although in recent years it been implied that only global environmental solutions will only result in big corporations reducing their polluting and wasteful ways, there is no denying that collectively, we improve our own communities when we make minimal impact decisions each time, we have an option about the waste we make. 

Here are 4 strategies for a sustainable, zero waste holiday shopping:  

1. Be mindful with your purchases: To prevent a frantic last-minute purchase, create an organized shopping list and stick to it. Once you are well prepared, the chances of making an unplanned and unfriendly environmental choice will be reduced. 

1. As you plan for Christmas gifts, remember the environment, and try to reduce waste. Try to avoid buying presents packaged with single-use plastic or Styrofoam (which is not recyclable). Instead of purchasing store-bought items, consider making homemade gifts that are just as special without further contributing to environmental pollution.  

1. This one seems so basic, but it has a significant impact on sea life. When you go shopping, bring your own bags instead of using paper or plastic bags. This will help the environment because 90% of paper and plastic bags end up in landfills or the ocean. This harms sea life.  

1. Do not worry about what is popular right now. It might not be popular next year. And with the fast fashion industry, there are thousands of new products every day. This causes a lot of pollution. Instead, choose eco-friendly gifts that were made sustainably. 

Shop local or shop online. 

The best way to shop during the holidays is to ‘shop local.’ This means that you should buy things from businesses in your community. Shopping this way not only helps support these businesses, but it also reduces the amount of pollution that is created.  

Even though there is still some pollution from shipping and transport when you shop online, it can potentially be less than shopping at a store in person BUT ONLY WHEN DONE PROPERLY! 

In the United States, many of us are obsessed with fast shipping. This puts a strain on businesses who must cater to our needs, leading to ramped up emissions given that cargo trucks are frequently required for speedy delivery even if they only carry limited items. 

 You determine the gift! 

The act of giving a gift is often more appreciated than the actual gift. Unless you’re an 8-year-old who desperately wants a new bike! 

Gifting your loved ones, a special and thoughtful zero waste Christmas gift can be as simple as packing homemade (even store bought) cookies in lovely glass jars and packing them with creative fabric, making your very own homemade gift box. 

Try packing freshly ground coffee in jars with a handwritten card letting them know you can both enjoy a cup of coffee ‘together’ in the morning, even though you are miles apart. 

Look for more food ideas from a variety of posts on any social media platform. Many ingredients are now available in bulk, making them even lower in waste.   

 Our Top 10 zero waste gift giving ideas. 

1. Looking for the perfect presents for kids that won’t break the bank or harm our environment? Consider gifting wooden toys, second-hand items, books, and card games to provide your special youngsters with an unforgettable Christmas. Plus, give them a unique “experience gift” like tickets to their favorite amusement park or a membership at their most beloved gym! Low waste and zero waste gifts are now available so everyone can enjoy this joyous holiday season without guilt. You might also want to give someone membership to a place like a museum, indoor playground, amusement park, or science center. You can also be creative and make things together as a family using recycled materials. This is a wonderful way to spend time together and let your imaginations run wild. Some parents want to find new homes for their old toys that their kids might not use anymore. You can buy secondhand products instead of new things. This way, you help the environment by not wasting anything. You can look on Facebook or in local stores for these types of products. Another fun idea is to cook together and make some delicious food! 
2. If they love coffee, they might be creating a lot of waste. You can help by giving a zero-waste coffee kit as a gift. Replace the regular coffee maker with one that uses filters. Get a nice ceramic mug to pour the coffee in. Buy some bulk coffee beans and put them in an upcycled jar or reusable cotton coffee storage bag. 
3. If you have a friend or family member who is new to the low waste lifestyle, one of the best gifts you can give them is a zero-waste starter kit. You can purchase one ready-made from different retailers, or you can customize your own homemade kit by selecting your favorite products, such as reusable stainless-steel straws, travel cutlery, beauty, and household products. A starter kit makes it easier to introduce others to a sustainable, low-waste lifestyle that is maintainable beyond Christmas. Let them try sustainable alternatives to liquid shampoo, conditioner, and shave cream by giving them a shampoo bar, conditioner bar and/or shave bar. Take your recipient on an outing – whether it’s to the local secondhand shop or natural food store and you and enjoy picking out items together!  
4. Handcrafted items may not be appreciated by all and can also be difficult to transport. If you are looking for a zero-waste gift idea that will not require shipping, tickets to their favorite film or show performance make an excellent choice! For the same reason, memberships/subscriptions such as those offered at gyms, fitness clubs or galleries are great options. And don’t forget about digital subscriptions like Spotify, Audible and Netflix – they offer an array of possibilities that your loved one is sure to appreciate. 
5. Spending quality time with your family is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give! Whether it’s organizing a picnic or dinner, surprise them by creating lasting memories. If that is not possible, gift certificates are always appreciated. Give those closest to you something they’ll enjoy; purchase certificates to their favorite store or organization and allow them to use the funds as desired. 
6. Charities always need our help, and during the end of year season when organizations are busier than ever, giving is more rewarding. You can donate money or time – or both! – to a charity your gift recipient already supports. Be sure to browse through social media posts from charities you care about; they might be looking for something special this year that would make an impact. There’s no better feeling than seeing somebody appreciate a cause they love thanks to you! And if cookies are always popular among your friends and family, add some extra thoughtfulness by attaching a handwritten card explaining that you have made the donation in their honor. Imagine how touched they’ll be with such heartfelt gestures! 
7. Self-care products are a way to show yourself that you care about yourself. They are also a reminder that you should take more time for yourself and do things that make you feel good. Scented candles, sugar scrubs, bath bombs, facial and body oils are all great zero waste gift ideas for Christmas. Show your loved ones how much you care by giving them some luxurious handmade gifts. Pamper those closest to you with replenishable products, bath and body items, sugar & salt exfoliants, skincare supplies, or a book of self-care ideas they can use throughout the year! They will be able to create their own homemade spa treatments right at home as well. 
8. Imparting the gift of health care shows how much you value someone, so why not consider a zero waste Oral Care Christmas Gift? Buying a toothbrush may sound like an uninspired present choice at first, but it can make for a truly meaningful and eco-friendly stocking stuffer. Gifting a plastic-free toothbrush may be the one item they end up using every day! If you’re looking to stick with a zero-waste lifestyle, bamboo toothbrushes are essential. Though their bristles aren’t completely biodegradable due to the nylon material used, they’re still better for our planet than other options out there!  
9. It is not just toothbrushes that get the ‘zero waste gift treatment’; now building your own DIY homemade toothpaste is also possible—and comes with its own set of perks. Plus, if pre-made plastic free toothpastes strike your fancy more, those come in glass jars and can be easily ordered through subscription, so they never miss out on sticking with routine brushing habits! 
10. Plants and terrariums are both excellent zero-waste Christmas gifts that can be tailored to the recipient. Terrariums make lovely presents as they involve creating a glass container filled with live plants along with various decorations – it’s also an easy craft project for kids! Whether you choose indoor vegetables or seedlings, planter boxes or fruit trees – these thoughtful gifts will bring plenty of joy this holiday season. 

Traditions: The gifts that keep on giving. 

Have you thought about how to start your own family Christmas traditions? Christmas is traditionally thought of as a time for family, starting new traditions can be an enjoyable experience that everyone can look forward to.  

The key to starting your own family Christmas tradition is all about scheduling time together and coming up with ideas that families and friends can enjoy together. Setting aside some weekly quality time together during December, like a board-game night or seasonal movie marathon creates an enjoyable environment that can become an annual tradition.  

Engaging in outdoors holiday activities, like caroling or going to see holiday lights intensify the festive feeling, while taking part in volunteer work can give you an even bigger reward.  

Make sure to find something different each year like hosting a progressive dinner party with friends or exchanging small gifts on Christmas eve to keep the spirit alive and growing every year. 

5 Tips for starting a new Christmas family tradition. 

Starting a new Christmas family tradition doesn’t have to be complicated. With the best tips and some thoughtful planning, you can create an unforgettable holiday experience with friends and family while also going green with a zero waste Christmas. To get you started on this journey, here are five recommendations.  

1. Commit to trying something new–despite being rooted in routine and nostalgia, introducing elements that shake up the usual pattern will make for a more meaningful event.  
2. Include every member of your family in the planning process so everyone has a sense of ownership over creating a tradition.  
3. Enlist assistance from friends or outside experts if needed; Drawing from other holidays experiences or seasonal recipes can help brainstorm ideas for activities or meals.  
4. Prioritize family involvement when deciding what type of items to give as gifts; homemade goods or service-focused activities like community service represent great resources with special meaning.  
5. Don’t forget to document the events by taking pictures and writing down memories each year so the tradition grows in value with time! 

The best Christmas tree purchase: real or artificial? 

Are you perplexed by the quandary of whether to choose a real or artificial tree this Christmas? For households who already own an artificial one, research suggests that continuing with it is the most sustainable route: no need for purchasing another! Using the artificial tree, you already own (or acquiring a used one) saves on the emissions from production and waste generated through disposal. 

Many artificial trees come from China. They must travel a long way to get to the United States. This creates a lot of pollution. These artificial trees are made of PVC. This is not good for the environment. Reusing your tree would be better for the environment. 

Of all the possible alternatives, choosing a real tree that can be replanted appears to be the most eco-friendly option. After Christmas is over, it could even be planted in your garden as a bonus!  

If you’re not sure about taking on this responsibility or don’t have enough space for planting a tree at home, many companies offer living trees which can simply be rented during December and January. 

This year, enjoy a sustainable and zero-waste Christmas!  

To recap and focus on the main strategies for a zero waste Christmas: 

• Planning is key – make a list of all the things you need and where you can source them second-hand or from bulk stores. 
• Decorations are easy to come by second hand – check out your local thrift store or Freecycle group during the summer. 
• Gifts can be made yourself or sourced from eco-friendly companies – think about what the recipient would appreciate and use.  
• Food is one of the biggest sources of waste at Christmas time. Plan your holiday meal and gift-giving carefully. 
• Christmas is about presents but it is also about being present. Try a new family tradition.  
• Have fun! Zero waste living doesn’t have to be difficult or boring. Take a moment to think about how you can make the planning process enjoyable and in January, reflect on the changes you made and how they made you feel. 

We hope this zero waste Christmas gift giving guide has provided you with some straightforward steps to planning an eco-friendlier Christmas, reducing the stress of making time to visit with family and friends, to finding options for giving or making the perfect gift. Now, lets go and make this the best zero waste holiday season yet!