Green Christmas Ideas

We often think of Christmas as a time of giving and celebrations. For the Christian world, there is so much reason for its people to celebrate. Yet, time and again, there is a reminder for everyone to dwell into the meaning of the season.

Can we truly reduce our carbon emission this Christmas? Is it possible to have a green Christmas?

Top Tips for a Green Christmas…

1. Shop locally
Supporting our local businesses helps maintain a healthy local economy. It also helps to reduce the need to travel long distances in our cars and cuts back on greenhouse gas emissions.

2. Buy Fair Trade Products
Fair Trade is an international certification scheme which ensures producers are paid a fair price for the goods they grow or make. The certification typically covers agricultural products, such as coffee, cocoa and sugar, but is expanding all the time to include manufactured products such as sports goods. Look for the logo on products you buy.

3. Buy sustainable gifts
Think sustainability in gift giving and you’ll discover some interesting new ideas. There are many unusual and useful products available that have been designed with the benefit of modern technology and a desire to reduce our impacts on the planet.

4. Give gifts which keep on giving
Many charities and environmental organisations offer gift services that not only solve the problem of buying for the person who has everything, but also help others, or the environment, for years to come.

5. Wrap with recycled paper
Use wrapping paper that is made from recycled paper, or else use paper that can easily be recycled. Avoid foil papers, plastic ribbons and other materials that can’t be reused or put in your recycling bins.

6. Turn lights off overnight
One of the delights of Christmas is the light decorations cheering our streets and homes. Turning lights off overnight reduces greenhouse gas emissions because of the reduced energy use – it’s also a great habit to get the family into.
Why not try out the new LED lights that are available. These lights are much more energy efficient than traditional bud lights and will last much longer too!

7. Spend time with people
Sustainability is not just about the environment – it’s also about the well being of people. With time being such a precious commodity why not set some aside to catch up with family and friends. It’s a chance to relax and enjoy each other’s company.

8. Buy locally-grown or organic food

Buying locally-grown produce supports the local economy and is better for the environment because it doesn’t need to be transported long distances in planes, trains, trucks and ships to get to you.
Certified organic food (look for the logo) is free of chemicals and pesticides and is grown naturally. It tastes great and is safer for both you and the environment.

9. Give charity or e-cards
Giving charity cards is giving twice because it supports a good cause while sending a festive message. E-cards are also a great idea as there is no paper, ink and transport involved – not to mention they are cheap to boot!

10. Donate to a good cause
Christmas is a time for giving and there are many people locally, and globally, that could do with our help. Give a donation to a charity this Christmas and help others in need.

11. Buy Green Power
Green Power is electricity guaranteed to be sourced from renewable sources, like solar, wind and hydro. This electricity produces no greenhouse gas emissions. Everyone can choose to source some or all of their electricity from Green Power all year round. Contact your electricity supplier for more information and support our Australian renewable energy industry.

12. Use less shopping bags
Remember to take your reusable bags with you this Christmas and avoid plastic bags altogether. If you forget then try to consolidate your shopping into fewer bags and say no to extra bags at the checkout. In doing so, you will reduce the impacts on the environment from the manufacture and disposal of plastic bags.