It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Sadly, while we’re enjoying ourselves these holidays, we’ll also be filling landfills and polluting our planet. Every Christmas, the average American household generates 25% more waste than throughout the rest of the year.

If you’re looking for ways to have a more sustainable Christmas, we’ve put together a few top tips.

Use reusable gift wrap

We all love receiving beautiful gifts wrapped elegantly in shiny papers and ribbons, but most wrapping paper is used once and then thrown out. There are plenty of ways to incorporate eco-friendly wrapping into your sustainable Christmas plans.

You can cut down on the amount of paper you use at Christmas by giving gifts in reusable tins and boxes. Buying decorated tins that your loved ones can use year-round is not only a sustainable Christmas wrapping option - it’s technically an extra present!

Another sustainable Christmas wrapping paper alternative is to use fabric. The Japanese wrapping method, Furoshiki, is becoming increasingly popular in the US. Try wrapping presents in decorative tea towels that will make a lovely addition to someone’s kitchen, or opt for reusable wine bags instead of paper ones.

Gift experiences

Trying to buy less material objects is a great way to have a more sustainable Christmas. A huge amount of plastic goes into the production of toys and gifts each year. Buying less, more thoughtful gifts for your friends and family is more sustainable and will be more appreciated!

Try surprising dad with a racecar driving experience or your friends with a cocktail making class at a local bar. Make unforgettable memories while having a sustainable Christmas.

Purchase presents with purpose

Many companies are making an effort to be more eco-conscious with their products these days. Choosing to spend your money on products that are made with recycled materials, are cruelty-free, vegan and carbon neutral is one way to have a more sustainable Christmas.

Send an eco-friendly message with responsible gifts that people can enjoy for years to come. Refillable cosmetics or reusable thermal bottles are perfect to encourage others to live a little greener.

Plan ahead

Coordinate with your family and friends in advance of the day to get others involved in your sustainable Christmas. Cut down on food waste by taking stock of your cupboards before buying groceries. You can even ask family members to bring different dishes and share out leftovers after the meal. Talk with each other about buying more responsible gifts, and split the cost so you can afford higher-quality, longer lasting items.

Give out seed paper Christmas cards

Christmas cards take a huge toll on the environment as they’re given out en masse over the holidays. Aside from the large amount of paper use to produce them, the ink and chemicals that spill out from factories pollute the nearby land and waterways.

Do something a little different this year for your sustainable Christmas, and buy seed paper cards instead. Not only are they going to stay out of the trash, the plants that grow from them help support the ecosystem.