ECO CAMBRIDGE
I’m Dreaming of a Green Christmas REDUCE YOUR WASTE AND CONSUMPTION OVER THE HOLIDAYS, THANKS TO THESE HANDY TIPS FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE SEASON!
WORDS BY ALEX FICE
Wrap it up!
A lot of gift wrap cannot be recycled – and with the UK getting through 227,000 miles of wrapping paper every Christmas, this presents a real problem for the environment. Good alternatives include brown paper or newspaper, both of which are fully recyclable. Make sure to switch out sellotape for recyclable paper tape or non-plastic adhesives, as any pesky remnants of plastic tape will make anything it’s attached to non-recyclable. Local zero-waste store Green Weigh in Sawston recommends using kraft paper or recycled paper with water-based ink if you prefer a festive print. “You could also wrap your presents using a scarf, spare material or pillowcases, which can be used year after year – making for a great family tradition!” says owner Kelly.
Each year, people in Britain buy over two billion greeting cards – half of which are purchased at Christmas. Of these, only around 33% get recycled. The best way to reduce waste when sending cards over the holiday period is to make your own (ideally using recycled card) or choose from a sustainably grown or recycled source. Look for the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) logo, avoid cards with cellophane wrappers, and favour local artists to cut down on transport emissions. Avoid glitter! For a completely carbon-free option, consider sending an e-card. SEASON'S GREETINGS
GIVE A LITTLE
Many people take joy in finding the perfect present for a loved one, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend above your means or overdo it. Unwanted Christmas presents are too common, ultimately resulting in gifts that end up in landfill. One of the ways to avoid wasteful presents is to focus on gifting experiences instead of items. “Make memories rather than exchanging physical gifts, and plan an experience with a friend like a day out or a meal,” suggests Kelly. “Another idea could be to adopt a loved one an animal, donate to a charity on their behalf or plant them a tree.” If you still want to give something that can be unwrapped, why not introduce your friends or family to some of the fantastic eco-friendly products on offer at your local zero-waste store? Green Weigh in Sawston offers an array of eco bath bombs, vegan wax melts and refillable glass candles, natural skincare products and soaps, as well as more practical items such as reusable water bottles and makeup remover pads. Full Circle in Cambridge provides an assortment of sustainable presents – including plastic-free products such as refillable mascara from Zao Organic Makeup.
72 DECEMBER 2022 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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