Why Reusable Is Better Than Recyclable this Christmas
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The limits of recycling
Please don’t get me wrong - recycling is still very important and vital. But it’s not the magic answer to the climate crisis we’ve all been told it is. Did you know that many plastics can only be recycled a couple of times before they become unusable? And have you ever found yourself staring at a piece of shiny wrapping paper, wondering if it’s recyclable or just destined for the bin? It’s a bit of a festive headache! Recycling facilities can get overwhelmed, especially at Christmas when our waste skyrockets. Imagine the waste one household is capable of producing over Christmas week then multiply it by tens of thousands for a small town.
But there is good news - by choosing reusable items instead, or sustainable items with almost no packaging you're cutting out the middleman. No need to worry about whether those shiny gift bags are recyclable if you're not using them in the first place!
Choosing reusables: The gift that keeps on giving
If you're looking to spread joy while keeping the planet happy, reusables are where it’s at. Not only do reusable items reduce waste, but they’re often better made and more thoughtful. There’s a whole movement based around the concept of ‘buy once buy right’. Reusable gifts like water bottles, bamboo razors, and coffee cups don’t just last the festive season; they’re there for the long haul!
My shop is packed with reusable products that make perfect presents. Whether it’s a sturdy reusable cup for your coffee loving friend or refillable aluminium Faith In Nature shampoo bottle for someone who loves a good pampering session, these gifts will keep giving well into the new year (and beyond). Plus, they look so much nicer under the tree than mountains of disposable plastic!
Shop secondhand for unique gifts
Who says your gifts have to be brand new though? The best presents often come with a bit of character, and where better to find those than in your local charity shops or on platforms like Vinted? You can find everything from one-of-a-kind vintage clothes to quirky homeware that’s perfect for that friend who already has everything. Antique shops also could fall into this category too, and in Taunton we have MT Games if you’re looking for something a little nerdy!
Not only will you be giving a gift with a story, but you’ll also be supporting a more circular economy, where things are reused and loved again. Second hand shopping is addictive though so watch out.
Use swap groups for gift exchanges (Because one persons 'Hmm' is anothers 'Yes please!')
In a world full of 'stuff' why not tap into the magic of swapping? Local swap groups on social media are a great way to trade items you no longer need for things you can gift (or keep!). The beauty of swapping is that it’s all about reusing and giving items a second life. Plus, it could be a brilliant way to meet like-minded people who are also on a mission to be more eco-conscious - but do watch out you know, stranger danger. Please do take precautions. Meet in well-lit places, tell someone where and when you’re going, that sort of thing.
There’s something a little bit magical about finding the perfect present through a swap - whether it's a practically new jacket or a cute accessory you just know someone will adore. And the best part? It costs you absolutely nothing but a little time scrolling through the groups.
Wrap it up reusably!
Ah, the wrapping paper conundrum. It's lovely and fun to tear open, and I stock a really beautiful range of recycled and recyclable printed brown kraft wrapping papers, but it’s also rather wasteful. The good news is that wrapping presents doesn’t have to mean contributing to a mountain of post-Christmas rubbish.
Why not try using fabric wraps, reusable bags, or even an old scarf for a stylish, eco-friendly twist? If you're feeling crafty, you can even make your own wrapping from old newspapers or maps (I love this option myself). Also in my little eco shop, I offer recyclable brown parcel tape with festive patterns, perfect for those gifts that need a little extra holiday spice!
Reuse your decorations
Do you remember when Christmas decorations were lovingly packed away in boxes and used year after year? That’s the spirit we’re aiming for here! Instead of buying plastic baubles that won’t last, opt for decorations made from natural or recycled materials. Even better, get crafty and make your own - dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks (available in the shop), pinecones, salt dough decorations are a fun and eco-friendly way to add a personal touch to your home.
And don’t forget to check charity shops or second-hand markets for vintage decorations. These little finds not only bring a touch of nostalgia but also help reduce the demand for newly made, plastic-heavy options. You can even make it a family tradition to reuse and create new decorations every year!
The season of reusability
This Christmas, let's ditch the throwaway culture and embrace the joys of reusability. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts in charity shops, swapping for something special, or wrapping presents in fabric and reusable paper, there are so many ways to make this holiday season kinder to the planet. Of course in my sustainable living shop I have plenty of reusable and refillable options to help make your festive season as green as possible too.
Remember, Christmas is all about giving - but that doesn’t mean giving the planet a hard time! Happy sustainable shopping!