A greener Christmas
Vicky Shaw hears how small changes to your behaviour can have a big impact on the planet
OVERSPENDING is a big concern for households as Christmas approaches.
This has been a huge year of change and, as part of that, people have been thinking about their impact on the planet.
So, if you’re looking to spend more mindfully this festive season, here are some tips from Shaunagh Duncan, sustainability lead at energy company Bulb.
Cut the waste
It’s common to overspend when buying ingredients for Christmas lunch, resulting in large amounts of waste. If you follow a recipe, it might state how many people the dish serves and you can shop accordingly, so you’re less likely to overspend and create waste – particularly if you’re cooking for a smaller group than usual.
For any food waste you do generate, try to make use of the compost and green waste bins.
Avoid plastic wrapping
Go for loose fruit and vegetables, which are often cheaper than packaged ones. Many high street and independent supermarkets also offer “wonky” fruit and veg, which are cheaper than regular items, but just as delicious.
Try buying local
This can be cost effective and helps to support local businesses, while reducing transport emissions.
If your Christmas is going to be very different this year, you could also try eating something different. By swapping red meat for more vegetarian recipes on Christmas Day, you could reduce your carbon footprint and also save money. Or if you can’t give up the turkey and pigs in blankets, try cutting down on red meat in the run-up to the big day instead.
Cover pots with lids when cooking
And only boi l the amount of water you need – these little hacks go a long way, and can help reduce your energy bills.
Rent a Christmas tree
Rather than buying a tree that could end up out with the bins in January, you could consider renting a Christmas tree. That way, you can enjoy it over the festive season, then the tree gets returned to a farm afterwards.
Consider e-cards and eco wrapping
Reusing gift wrap from last Christmas can cut costs and waste. You can also get creative with your wrapping, using old magazines and spare fabric. Try sending e-cards, too, or make your own.
Use energy-saving Christmas lights
Energy-saving LED lights are available from many online stores or garden centres. You could also switch to solar-powered outdoor lights, which can be operated on a timer.
Shop mindfully
There’s often a pressure to buy gifts for people unnecessarily. Although this comes with good intentions, it can lead to overspending and more waste sent to landfill. You could also try to limit the number of different online deliveries to your home, to help reduce vehicle emissions.
Try cutting down on red meat in the run-up to the big day
Give presents that last
Examples of long-lasting presents could include a houseplant or a memory photo album. Buying “gift experience” vouchers to be used some time in the future could also support local firms.
Consider switching energy provider
At this time of year, households’ energy consumption is high. So, you could switch to a cheaper tariff or provider. You could also consider a renewable energy supplier as a way of going green.