Graphic by Kinsey Ratzman ’21
BY MIMI HUCKINS ’21
The holiday season is here and, although it is a time for festivities, winter activities and family, it is also a time in which a huge amount of waste is created. However, it is very simple to celebrate while creating less waste and saving money.
For instance, gift wrapping can be transformed to zero waste very easily. Wrapping paper and plastic tape create a huge amount of waste during the holidays. Reusing paper to wrap your presents or purchasing wrapping paper made from recycled materials is a great alternative. Brown paper that often comes in packages is a good alternative to the glossy, patterned wrapping paper that is often used. You may already have brown packing paper, or it can be purchased for very cheap. Dressing it up with stamps or drawings and tying it up with twine gives it a personalized touch. The best part about this is that the paper can be composted.
Another somewhat less visually appealing but very useful alternative is newspaper. You can make your gift wrapping even more eco-friendly by purchasing paper tape to use rather than typical plastic tape that comes in plastic packaging.
The holiday season is a great time for re- tail stores and corporations to drain consumers’ wallets. Try shopping at small businesses, or businesses that you know provide ethical working conditions. Additionally, try buying in person instead of shopping online. Although, a favorite option of mine is Etsy, as it lists many cute and personalized gifts, and purchases often support a single artist or small business. Another amazing option for an eco-friendly gift is hand-making something.
If you want to go the extra mile, a great idea is always encouraging a zero waste lifestyle through your gift. Self-care products in glass packaging, travel mugs, a reusable water bottle or a cute shopping tote are great options.
Another problem around the holidays is food waste. Make it a goal to only make enough food for your number of guests, and ensure everyone goes home with leftovers.
Although the holidays are a happy time for many, it is also a time of mass consumption and consumerism. It’s important to realize that you don’t need to buy fancy wrapping paper and bows to give someone a gift. More eco-friendly options can be just as beautiful, if not more, and will save you a lot of money.
I challenge you to think of everything you can reuse or make at home this holiday season. Try to spend less time shopping and more time with the people you love.