Sustainability During the Holiday Season

Written by Rachael Dal Porto, Amanda Wild, and Stephanie Tang

The holiday season is upon us, and it's the perfect time to give back—not just to loved ones, but to our planet too! At Aspen Environmental Group, we are passionate about the environment, and we believe that sustainability starts with small, everyday actions at home. Below are simple but effective ways to make your holidays more sustainable, helping reduce your environmental impact.

Wrap Kindly

Every year, household waste increases by more than 25% between Thanksgiving and the New Year. Some of this waste is from single-use wrapping paper and other gift concealing methods that ends up in landfills after just one use. Wrapping paper often contains plastic-based materials like foil and glitter, which make it difficult to recycle. Opting for recyclable or reusable wrapping paper helps reduce waste. To make a more sustainable choice, consider using recyclable or reusable gift wrap such as kraft paper, fabric, or even newspaper.

Re-Gift, Reuse, Repurpose

Instead of buying new gifts, think about passing on items you no longer need or repurposing items you already own. Upcycled gifts, like transforming old clothing into a quilt or reimagining household items into something new, can be meaningful and sustainable. Reusing and repurposing not only helps the planet, but also adds a personal touch to gift-giving.

Support Locally

Supporting local businesses and artisans reduces the emissions associated with long-distance shipping while also boosting your local economy. Buying locally made gifts reduces transportation-related emissions and supports small businesses that contribute to a sustainable and resilient community.

Gift Experiences

Returns contribute to packaging waste and increased emissions from transportation to and from warehouses. By gifting experiences, you can reduce your carbon footprint while creating meaningful moments. Instead of buying physical gifts, consider giving experiences such as event tickets, memberships, or a donation to a charity your loved one cares about.

Minimize Food Waste

The holidays not only bring delicious feasts but also bring an increase in food waste. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reports that Americans waste between 30% and 40% of the food supply each year, which translates to approximately $1,500 per family spent on wasted food each year. Planning meals carefully and avoiding over-purchasing can reduce food waste. Being mindful to consume leftovers is another great way to prevent waste.

Travel Consciously

Travel during the holidays contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions. Consider carpooling, using public transportation, or staying local to reduce your emissions and avoid the holiday traffic. If traveling long distances, try opting for carpooling or trains instead of flying or driving alone. Another tip for travel during the holidays is to stack trips—if you are making four trips, try to do them consecutively, when possible, to minimize travel time.

Save Energy (and Money!)

The holiday season presents an opportunity to reduce energy consumption. Switch to LED holiday lights, which use less energy and last longer, or opt for solar-powered decorations. You can also reduce your home’s energy consumption by adjusting your thermostat, cooking multiple holiday dishes at once, and using energy-efficient appliances like air fryers, toaster ovens, and slow cookers. These small changes will help save both energy and money!
 

Sources: EnergyStar Energy Tips, EPA Food Waste, USDA