The holiday season is a great time to adorn both the inside and outside of your home with fun, seasonal decor. Some seasonal decorations, however, can take a toll on the environment and amass clutter in your home. By incorporating some more eco-friendly elements into your holiday rotation, you can get into the spirit of the season while also being a little kinder to the planet. Here are a few ideas to get you started — happy decorating!
Join a local buy-nothing group
Whether you’re looking to source some decorations for yourself or clear out gently-used decorations you no longer need, buy-nothing groups are a great way to have a more eco-friendly holiday. You can find a local group on the Buy Nothing Project website or search for local groups on social media. Churches, schools and community centers also sometimes offer and take donations for buy-nothing groups. Still can’t find one in your area? Consider starting your own!
Opt for reusable gift wrap
Gift wrap is easily one of the biggest sources of waste during the holiday season, but you don’t have to sacrifice style to swap it out for something more sustainable. There are plenty of reusable gift wrap options that you can buy on websites like Etsy, but you can also use fun patterned fabrics, reusable tote bags or pillowcases.
Use LED lights
Switching to LED lights for your holiday display is a simple yet impactful way to conserve energy. LED lights use significantly less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, and there are tons of styles that you can find for both indoor and outdoor decorating.
Compost your pumpkin
The great thing about most gourds, squash and pumpkins is that they are not only edible but easily compostable. If your jack-o-lantern has seen better days or you ended up with some decorative gourds that are less-than-appetizing, don’t just toss them in the trash — add them to your home compost bin or sign up for a composting service to collect them.
Consider potted plants
There are many festive, evergreen indoor plants that can be used as an alternative to disposable wreaths or cut trees. Norfolk pines or rosemary bushes are low-maintenance indoor plants that can be cared for throughout the year and reused in future holiday seasons. Plus, who doesn’t love the smell of fresh rosemary?
Shop secondhand
Thrift stores, antique shops, estate sales and other secondhand shops are all great spots to score seasonal decorations. You’re also more likely to stumble upon some unique or vintage items on your search. What you find in a display case at your local thrift shop could be a family heirloom for years to come!
Celebrating the holiday season with eco-friendly decorations not only shows your commitment to the environment but also sets a wonderful example for future generations. You’re passing down a new tradition of creating a warm and festive atmosphere while minimizing your environmental impact. Happy holidays!