Here comes Christmas (already)!
Somehow in the midst of daily briefings and alert level restrictions the second half of the year has slipped by and we’re rounding the corner into Christmas! But this year it’ll look a little different. In many places end-of-year functions, prize-givings, and summer sport have been canned. So, here a few ideas on how to tackle the silly season safely and sustainably…
Think small, local and sustainable when buying gifts
Show your support for kiwi businesses by intentionally buying something local. There are many Facebook pages dedicated to local artisans – check out Chooice, NZ Made Products, or Made by Mums Marketplace NZ. And you’re welcome to come and peruse Giftware & Sets collection too where you'll find designer keep bags, starter sets, zero waste shopping sets, and gift cards.
Take your Christmas party outside
Aucklanders are now adept at the art of picnicking and park meet ups. And open-air catchups are quickly becoming a good idea in all parts of Aotearoa. So why not extend this idea for your work or whanau Christmas party?
Make your outdoor Christmas an environmentally friendly one by...
🌱 Using recycled, unbleached napkins
🌱 Checking the area as you leave and make sure you've taken all waste with you
🌱 Using compostable mini cling wrap to save cut fruit and leftovers
🌱 Using good quality cups and plates that can be reused over and over again
🌱 Favouring reusable over single-use - this goes for your mask, cutlery, drink containers, cups and straws
🌱 Bringing suitably sized portions with you in compostable resealable bags (available in both snack and sandwich size)
🌱 Provide bins for your guest so waste can be sorted and taken away with you
Embrace the Christmas spirit and shed the unnecessary
Forget the trashy stocking stuffers and cheap office secret Santas. Buy one good quality, durable and practical gift. Or give a living present; a plant or herbs for the garden. Our friends at Trees That Count make it super easy to gift a native tree donations virtually - and your recipient will receive a beautiful gift voucher to boot. And when it comes to decorations, skip the balloons and use nature as your inspo. Decorate your dining table or picnic rug with pine cones and branches.
Showcase nature in your gift packaging
Use recycled kraft paper (look for the FSC mark) gift wrap or old fabric to wrap and decorate with a twigs leaves or even a flower from your garden. Or, if you do buy gift wrap, make sure it’s simple and recyclable; not lined with plastic, or foil, or too thin to contain good quality fibres, or decorated with glitter.
If you’re mailing Christmas gifts please consider how you're packaging them. Our compostable courier bags are biodegradable, contain corn starch, and printed with non-toxic inks. They also feature a second line of seal making them reusable and extending their life before they hit the compost heap. Save pretty gift wrap and ribbons to use again (if not as wrappers as least as kids holiday craft supplies).
If you have any other ideas, or ways that you’re planning to tread more lightly this silly season, please tag us on social media so we can share your good ideas! Merry Christmas!