Reducing Plastic Waste Around the Christmas Period

Christmas is a time of joy and generosity, but it’s also one of the most wasteful seasons of the year, especially in terms of the amount of plastic waste generated.

We know that more people than ever want to enjoy the festive period in an eco-friendly way, without losing any of the magic and cheer. That’s why, with Brown Recycling as your trusted local waste and recycling partner, we’ve created a practical guide to help boost your efforts.

We’re sharing our Christmas sustainability tips and some ideas for reducing plastic waste, including easy everyday changes around gifts, wrapping, decorations, meals and recycling.

Use sustainable gift wrapping alternatives

The standard wrapping paper, plastic bows and glittery tapes often contain plastic coatings or metallic finishes that mean they can’t be recycled. 

Here are some simple alternatives: use recyclable wrapping paper and reuse gift bags for presents. There are also some great plastic-free finishing touches available, such as natural twine and fabric ribbons. Gifting doesn’t need layers of shiny plastic to feel special; a box, reusable bag or even a plain recyclable card can look just as festive under the tree.

Top tip: Try the simple scrunch test to check whether the paper on the presents you receive is recyclable. Anything that stays scrunched is paper, while other materials will bounce back.

Choose plastic-free or low-waste gifts

This year, you might like to look for gifts that avoid heavy plastic packaging – especially for children’s toys – such as experiences, consumable goods like soaps and candles, or gifts made from more durable and recyclable materials, such as wood and metal.

You can also try buying people second-hand items to reduce your impact. Pre-loved books and vintage items can lend a certain charm when tailored to the recipient and allow you to save items from going to waste.

Top tip: Look out for brands that promote minimal packaging or recyclable packaging as you hunt for presents.

Shop local to reduce packaging waste

While shopping online can be convenient, it often comes with extra plastic in the form of padded wrapping and mailing bags. Instead, why not try and shop locally this Christmas? 

From gift buying to the produce you purchase, you can support local and independent shops by sticking to what’s close by. You’ll have less plastic packaging to waste, and you can even take your own bags.

Top tip: Shop on foot, by bike or combine your errands to reduce your travel where possible.

Reduce your use of disposable decorations

Many low-cost, plastic Christmas decorations don’t tend to last long, so why not invest in ones that can be reused year after year? By selecting wood, glass, metal or fabric decorations, you’ll have pieces that feel more durable and natural.

You can even make your own decorations to help you get into the festive spirit, using foraged pine cones, paper chains and homemade garlands. 

Top tip: Always pack and store your decorations carefully to help them last longer.

Avoid plastic food packaging at festive meals and gatherings

Turkeys, mince pies and festive chocolates often come in plastic trays, film and shrink‑wrap. Even seasonal items such as Advent calendars, plastic food tubs and disposable partyware all add to the pile. 

Avoiding as much plastic food packaging as possible when doing your Christmas shop means you’ll be a lot lighter on plastic waste come the end of the festivities. Look for cardboard containers and ditch the plastic bags provided for loose vegetables in supermarkets wherever possible.

Top tip: Buy larger sharing packs of food to minimise the number of items overall, and encourage any guests to bring containers if you plan to have leftovers.

Recycle correctly and make use of local recycling services

All of the above will help to reduce your plastic usage, and for the plastics that are just unavoidable, using correct recycling is vitally important.

It helps to check your local council’s guidelines so that you can be sure you’re using the right bins. We recommend rinsing and drying plastic recycling before placing it in your bin, but you may also need to separate different materials as part of the packaging. 

Batteries, fairy lights and old gadgets are used over the festive period more than at any other point in the year. Your local recycling centre or supermarket will have a designated spot for them. Make sure you never mix these items in your general waste.

Top tip: If you know you’ll have extra waste this Christmas, you can always hire a small domestic skip to fill. At Brown Recycling, we’ll then take your waste and separate any recyclables to ensure you’re doing your part.

You don’t need to be perfect — simply choosing a few plastic-free Christmas ideas each year can really make a difference, especially if we all try. We’re committed to sustainability and responsible waste management for Staffordshire, Cheshire and the Midlands. Contact us today to find out more about our recycling services or book your skip online.