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How to Be Sustainably Conscious This Winter Festive Period

Date added: Thu 14 Nov 2024

The winter season and festive celebrations bring warmth, joy, and comfort. But this season can also be a time of high energy consumption, increased waste, and a bigger environmental footprint if we're not careful. By making a few thoughtful choices, we can enjoy the winter festivities sustainably without sacrificing the joy of the season. Here’s how to keep it cosy, mindful, and eco-friendly this winter.

1. Heat Smart, Not Hard

Keeping the house warm is essential during colder months, but heating accounts for a significant portion of energy use. A few simple adjustments can make your home more energy-efficient and keep heating costs down.

  • Keep your Flow Temp Low: Are your radiators too hot to touch? By lowering the flow temperature on your heating system and running your heating for longer periods, you can warm your home gradually and more efficiently. This approach not only makes your home feel cozier but can also save you money on energy bills.
  • Use Programmable Thermostats: A programmable thermostat can help you reduce heating use during times you’re asleep or away. Setting the temperature to drop a few degrees during these hours can save a considerable amount of energy.
  • Seal and Insulate: Ensure your home is well-insulated, and check for drafts around doors and windows. Use weather stripping or draft blockers where needed, and consider thicker curtains to trap heat.
  • Heat Zones: Only heat rooms you use. If you spend most of your time in the living room, for example, close doors to keep the heat in, and avoid heating unused rooms. If you have a Daikin Air to Air unit, opt to keep your heating off and use this to warm a specific area of your home.

2. Choose Seasonal and Local Produce

Winter months bring an array of delicious, seasonal produce that’s not only fresh but often less taxing on the environment. Eating seasonally is a great way to enjoy nutrient-dense food while supporting local farmers and reducing carbon emissions associated with imported foods.

  • Look for Winter Vegetables: Winter squashes, potatoes, leeks, carrots, beets, and leafy greens like kale are packed with nutrients and flavor.
  • Buy Locally: Visit a farmer’s market or shop at independent supermarkets that buy directly from local growers. Locally-sourced produce not only reduces your carbon footprint but also helps support local agriculture.
  • Get Creative with Winter Recipes: Winter stews, soups, and roasted root vegetables are perfect for the season and make use of sustainable produce. You could even consider hosting a “seasonal dinner” and sharing the benefits of eating locally with friends and family.

3. Gift with Purpose

Gift-giving is central to many holiday traditions, but many presents end up unused or discarded, adding to waste. Mindful gifting can make the act of giving both meaningful and sustainable.

  • Give Experiences or Digital Gifts: Instead of physical items, consider gifting experiences like concert tickets, memberships, or virtual classes. Digital gift cards and subscriptions (like e-books or streaming services) are also thoughtful, zero-waste options.
  • Choose Pre-Loved or Upcycled Gifts: Charity shops, online marketplaces, and upcycled goods can be treasure troves for unique, sustainable finds. Whether it’s vintage clothing or upcycled furniture, second-hand gifts add character and reduce environmental impact.
  • DIY and Handmade Gifts: Homemade treats, knitted scarves, or crafted gifts can bring a personal touch and are often appreciated more for the thought and effort behind them.

4. Sustainable Wrapping Solutions

Each year, tons of gift wrap end up in landfills. Traditional wrapping paper can be challenging to recycle due to laminates, foils, and glitter, so consider more eco-friendly options.

  • Furoshiki Wrapping: This traditional Japanese method uses reusable fabric to wrap gifts, adding a unique and artistic touch. You can use scarves, tea towels, or any fabric you have on hand, and the recipient can reuse it.
  • Recycled Wrapping Paper: If you prefer the classic look, many stores offer recycled or recyclable wrapping paper. Just avoid paper with glitter or metallic finishes.
  • Repurpose What You Have: Old newspapers, maps, and paper bags can make stylish and sustainable wrapping options. A simple touch of twine and some foraged greenery can elevate the look.

5. Light Up with Efficiency

Decorative lighting is a big part of the festive spirit, but it can be a large energy drain. Switch to more energy-efficient lighting options to enjoy the glow without excessive power use.

  • LED Lights: LED lights use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer, making them a better choice for the environment and your wallet.
  • Solar-Powered Outdoor Lights: If you decorate the exterior of your home, consider using solar-powered lights. They recharge during the day and provide beautiful, sustainable lighting at night.
  • Use a Timer: Set your holiday lights on a timer to ensure they’re only on when needed. This not only saves energy but also adds an extra layer of convenience.

6. Reduce Food Waste

With the abundance of festive food, it’s easy for waste to pile up. Planning meals carefully and storing leftovers properly can reduce food waste significantly.

  • Plan Meals with Portions in Mind: Before hosting a gathering, try to estimate portions realistically to avoid excess. Leftovers are great, but aim to cook just enough to prevent food waste.
  • Get Creative with Leftovers: Use leftovers to create new meals or dishes. A roasted vegetable spread can be repurposed into a soup, or leftovers from a holiday roast can become sandwiches or stews.
  • Compost What You Can: If you end up with scraps, compost them to keep organic waste out of landfills and enrich the soil for future plant growth.

7. Recycle and Dispose of Waste Responsibly

With higher consumption rates during the holidays, be mindful of waste and dispose of items responsibly.

  • Recycle Properly: Familiarise yourself with local recycling guidelines, especially for festive items. Not all wrapping paper or plastic packaging is recyclable, so be sure to check before tossing.
  • Eco-Friendly Decorations: Instead of single-use decorations, consider long-lasting options that can be used year after year. DIY décor made from natural or biodegradable materials, like garlands of dried fruit or pinecones, adds charm without adding waste.
  • Use Reusable Tableware: For holiday gatherings, avoid disposable tableware, cups, and napkins. Opt for reusable plates, cloth napkins, and glassware to reduce single-use items.

Being sustainably conscious during the winter and festive season doesn't mean cutting back on joy; it simply means thinking about how our choices impact the environment. These small but impactful changes can help you create a cosy, festive atmosphere that’s kinder to the planet. Let’s celebrate a holiday season that brings warmth, not only to our homes and loved ones but to the world around us as well. Happy, sustainable celebrations!