Gifts play an important role in the celebrations, but according to surveys, many people do not receive the desired items, and some of them end up being thrown away.
Gift wrapping with bright ribbons brings joy for just a few minutes, after which it becomes trash. Additionally, traditional gifts such as shampoos and cosmetics may contain microplastics and harmful chemicals that negatively affect health and the environment.
Electronic devices also impact nature. The production of new smartphones, computers, and other gadgets requires significant resources, and electronic waste pollutes soil and water. Before deciding to purchase new tech devices, it is worth considering whether they are truly needed.
However, gifts can be not only pleasant but also environmentally friendly. For example, tickets to workshops or joint activities with friends and family, as well as handmade gifts, can be good options.
If you still decide to give material items, consider packaging them yourself using recyclable or reusable materials.
Besides gifts, during the holidays we also consume many resources while preparing treats, including decorations and traveling. Small changes in our behavior can help reduce the negative impact on nature and support sustainable development.
Ecologists urge choosing live Christmas trees instead of plastic ones and purchasing them from official markets with documentation confirming the legality of the cutting.
Representatives of the World Wildlife Fund advise using the tree after the holidays: branches can be used as supports for plants, needles for aromatic procedures, or as fillers for mattresses. If the tree is in a pot, it can be replanted in the garden after the holidays.
To save electricity, it is recommended to turn on holiday lights only when necessary and to turn them off before leaving the house or at night.
When preparing festive dishes, it is important to be smart: it is better to buy local products, purchase all necessary ingredients at once to reduce packaging, use reusable bags, and plan portions in advance to minimize food waste. According to statistics, one-third of all food produced in the world ends up in landfills.
Excess food and unwanted gifts can be exchanged, sold, or given to those in need.
Adopting such simple habits can help make the New Year holidays not only joyful but also eco-friendly.
