By Alina Rezepova, Staff Writer
As Christmas quickly approaches, many people are already planning how to decorate their homes with new holiday decorations. What is often overlooked, however, is how these festive choices can impact the environment.
Every December, millions of Christmas decorations are used, from rolls of wrapping paper to shiny plastic ornaments and ribbons, many of which are not disposed of properly. However, Christmas magic does not have to leave a trail of plastic in its wake.
Today, more people are finding ways to celebrate in a conscious way, creating beauty while protecting the planet. One of the easiest ways to make your holiday more sustainable is to pay attention to gift wrapping.
Based on information from the Ecology Center, many shiny papers and glitter ribbons containplastic and are not recyclable. They end up in landfills after the holiday. Reusable fabric bags or kraft paper are festive alternatives that are eco-friendly and add a special touch to gifts.
“Use reusable wrapping. In my house, we have a bunch of cloth, paper, and some plastic holiday-themed decorative bags. We keep them year after year,” said Dr. Christopher Miller, professor of biology and ecology at Saint Leo.
The simple habit of using gift bags, fabric cuts, or kraft paper can reduce waste. These materials can be reused repeatedly, making gift wrapping a part of family tradition.
According to the Ecology Center, in recent years, more people have been choosing reusable fabric bags and kraft paper, which is a type of packaging that can be reused or recycled. This is not only eco-friendly but also adds a special charm to the gift.
Also, many people buy new toys every year, even though the old ones are still usable, thus increasing the amount of plastic waste.
“Reusing decorations will always lessen impact. Every time a new decoration is purchased, that thing now has a new impact on the environment because of manufacturing, shipping, and eventual disposal. Keeping decorations year-over-year is best,” said Miller.
Reusing decorations helps preserve family memories and creates a sense of continuity during the holidays. Old toys hold memories, become part of family history, and are passed down from generation to generation.
“All of our decorations are recyclable or reused because we always keep them and never throw them away. My mom has some she has kept for 20 years,” said Brianna Ortega, a sophomore majoring in sports business.
WasteWise.com points out that instead of plastic balls and tinsel, you can use natural materials such as dried oranges, pine cones, spruce branches, or cinnamon sticks. These decorations create a cozy atmosphere and pleasant aroma, and most importantly, they are completely biodegradable.
Many of these decorations can be recycled or reused, making the holiday more environmentally friendly.
Christmas is a wonderful holiday that fills homes with warmth, joy, and a sense of renewal, but it’s true meaning lies not in the number of decorations purchased, but in how people fill this day with meaning and care for their loved ones.
“Going small on decorations is better … Re-use of decorations is very important, and it actually enhances the good feelings around Christmas because even small things can have great meaning,” said Miller.
An eco-friendly Christmas does not mean giving up on joy; in fact, finding ways to care for the planet can make the holiday even more meaningful. Let the gifts and decorations be not only beautiful but also kind to the planet, as the true spirit of the holiday comes from love and respect for the world.
