The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness and generosity, but it can also be a time for overflowing waste bins. According to Oklahoma State University, families tend to generate about 25% more trash during this season, and it’s easy to see how. From disposable gift wrap to novelty decor destined for the landfill by New Year’s Eve, short-lived festivities can unintentionally generate long-term trash.
But that doesn’t mean you need to endure a drab and joyless December in a cave: a few thoughtful swaps can make for magical holiday celebrations with less waste, and some of them even help communities in need. Here are nine sustainable purchases that can help fill the season with intention, and maybe even inspire those around you to do the same.
Musubi Kiln furoshiki gift-wrapping cloth
Instead of reaching for conventional gift wrap, which can’t always be recycled due to glittery finishes, cut down on paper waste with traditional Japanese cloths known as furoshiki (or more formal versions called fukusa). These simple cloths come in a wide variety of sizes and patterns; this one from Musubi Kiln is made of cotton, which has a nice thickness that conceals the gift and is easy to use, even for those new to fabric wrapping. And if this gift-wrapping cloth is sold out, their other designs can be reused and gifted on any other occasion.
Estrella star garlands
Add a whimsical flourish to your tree with this colorful 5ft garland of paper stars made from silk and water hyacinth, an invasive weed in Bangladesh where these garlands are made by hand. Serrv International runs a Fair Trade Certified factory employing mostly women who are widowed, single mothers, or heads of household. The 76-year-old non-profit has helped more than 1,000 Bangladeshi handcrafters receive skill training, employment and advance payment, aiding in improving their standards of living and making children’s education accessible.
Hearth & Fir Heartland Grand Slim Christmas tree
An artificial Christmas tree can be more environmentally friendly than cutting down a fresh tree every year, as long as you use it for at least 10 years, according to the Carbon Trust. That’s why it’s worth investing in one built for the long haul.
This 6ft heirloom-quality model has lifelike needles with the kind of realistic variation you’d see on a natural tree, with 52 lush branches sturdy enough to hold all of your favorite ornaments. Available in unlit and pre-lit (with LED bulbs) options, it is extremely easy to put together – you just stack the sections, fluff the branches to your liking, and get to decorating. When you’re ready to put it away, it comes apart quickly and has its own sturdy storage duffel to keep it safe year after year.
Coyuchi velvet organic tree skirt
A Christmas tree built to last generations deserves a skirt that can also go the same distance, and this Coyuchi skirt is a fine example. Unlike the myriad of options for novelty tree skirts, this one adds a touch of understated elegance to your holiday decor that’s unlikely to go out of style, and its neutral color fits easily into any existing color scheme. Its plush ivory velvet fabrication includes a 100% organic cotton batting and smooth sateen backing with no synthetic materials, and its quilted finish provides a layer of cushion for laying down gifts. The generous 52in diameter is enough to look great even under a larger Christmas tree. You can also find matching stockings for a cohesive addition to your mantel.
Hand-dipped beeswax Hanukkah candles
Candles are an integral part of the Festival of Lights, but not all tapers are created equal – if you’re concerned about respiratory irritation, you will want to double check what they’re made of. This set of hand-dipped candles are made of 100% natural beeswax with pure cotton wicks, making them eco-friendly, biodegradable and cleaner-burning than their petroleum peers. They’re available in a pack of 45, enough to last for all eight nights of Hanukkah.
after newsletter promotion
Felted wool ornaments
The rustic charm of felted wool ornaments is undeniable, but they are also incredibly durable, unlike glass and plastic ornaments that may break easily. Handmade in a Fair Trade Certified factory in Nepal, this set of six adorable animals playing winter sports is made up of 93% wool, 5% wire and 2% paper, and features a natural jute hanging string. While the sports style is currently sold out, Pottery Barn Kids’ vast selection also includes other festive options including nostalgic teddy bears, purrfectly playful cats, and snazzy snowmen.
Solar-powered string lights
The holidays wouldn’t be the same without the magical sparkle of lights, but if you’re concerned about saving electricity, this solar-powered set offers a radiant display without the guilt. A small solar panel charges two batteries, which power all 1,128 warm white LEDs on this 34.5ft strand. That also means you don’t need to locate them near an outlet, but be aware that you will need to buy the rechargeable batteries separately (a two-pack goes for about $13 on Amazon). A full charge lasts about six hours, and if the short daylight hours where you live aren’t enough to fill it up every day, you can also charge them from a USB port.
Felted wool mistletoe garland
This sweet mistletoe garland is made of 100% hand-felted wool, providing a reusable, pet- and kid-safe alternative to the real plant (which is toxic if ingested!). Measuring 6ft in length, it will look fantastic across your mantel, wrapped around a banister, or draped over a doorway. Unlike real mistletoe, it won’t fade or wilt as the season goes on. And it’s made in a Fair Trade Certified factory in Nepal, which helps sustain and empower local skilled artisans. If the mistletoe style is sold out, try the very similar holly version.
World Market plaid holiday throw blanket
Sometimes it only takes a single accessory to transform your living room with the seasons, like the addition of a festive blanket. You would never guess that this throw is made from recycled plastic bottles: its chunky braided tassels and smart holiday plaid pattern make it extra cozy. Measuring 50x 60in, it’s soft, thick and perfect for snuggling under while watching a classic Christmas movie on a chilly evening.
Bernadette Machard de Gramont is a freelance food, wine and lifestyle writer who has spent more time than she’ll admit testing kitchen gadgets, mastering a “no makeup makeup” look, and seeking the perfect carry-on suitcase. A Francophile/Francophone with a practical streak, she writes about everything from cookware to cultural quirks with equal enthusiasm.
