Greater Goods

Adopting a more considered approach to Christmas results in thoughtful gifting, reducing waste on every level, writes Sarah Pickette.

An eco-aware Xmas.

Yes, ’tis the season to be jolly, and setting out to minimise your festive footprint can double the pleasure for everyone. The fact is, we generate more household waste in December than at any other time of the year. And while there’s no need to come over all ‘Bah humbug!’, by having a plan in place we can all keep a lid on waste.

“Anyone who’s ever put their post-Christmas bins out is probably aware of how much extra rubbish is collected,” says Ryan Collins, recycling programs manager for Planet Ark. “It’s good to give a little thought to what you can reuse or recycle.” Embossing and a bit of glitter aren’t a problem for paper-recycling systems, says Collins, but foil or cellophane wrapping are. When it comes to disposing of gift bags, first remove the ribbon handles and try tearing a corner. “If it won’t rip easily, it’s not recyclable because the paper is coated.” Christmas cards are generally okay for kerbside recycling, he adds.

Should Santa bring you a new phone, tablet or other electronic gift, don’t bin the old one. Phones can be sent off to MobileMuster, the Australian mobile phone industry’s product-stewardship program, and other gadgets set aside for your council’s next e-waste collection.

One of the biggest sources of waste at Christmas is food, according to Collins. “But with a bit of common sense and a shopping list, you can make sure you don’t buy too much,” he says. “Sometimes over-catering just happens, so commit to using up leftovers.”

Christmas gift-giving is a joyous exchange and practical presents tick most boxes. “They make the giver feel good, as do gifts that don’t come with an excessive amount of packaging,” says Tracey Bailey, founder of eco-retailer Biome, who notes that the amount of boxes, bubble wrap and twisty ties generated can quickly overwhelm a living room. “My advice is to consider a product’s packaging in your purchasing decision, and recycle what you can.”

If you’re in the “Argh, we all have too much stuff!” camp before you even begin Christmas shopping, you might find those on your list share your views. Chat to friends and family about whether they actually want to receive something, says Bailey. “You might both decide not to exchange gifts and that takes the pressure off.”

‘IF YOU’RE BUYING BATTERY-OPERATED TOYS FOR THE KIDS, ALSO CONSIDER GIVING THEM RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES TO SAVE MONEY AND REDUCE THE IMPACT OF YOUR GIF T.’ RYAN COLLINS, PLANET ARK