By Eunice Barasa
Nairobi, Kenya
Introduction
The Christmas mood is here with us.
It is estimated that 2 billion people in more than 160 countries consider Christmas the most important day of their calendar year.
Christmas is synonymous with joy, family gatherings, travels, and almost unending festivities until the new year. However, of growing concern is the environmental impact this season brings along. Air pollution and waste generation are immense. In this article, I look at the various ways Christmas celebrations affect the environment and suggest how best sustainable practices that can be adopted.
Air Pollution
Christmas is a season associated with considerable movements and travels as friends and families relocate – most temporarily to tap into the joys of the season. Obviously, transportation is a big contributor to pollution and carbon emissions and takes a spike during Christmas. Following closely is the impact fireworks displays has, both during Christmas and while ushering in the New year.
Waste generation
With food, gifting and celebration comes waste! The UK alone generates more than 100 million bags of rubbish that ends up in the landfills each Christmas. Much of this waste comes from gift packaging, wrapping paper, and food waste. Unsurprisingly, wrapping paper demand increases during the Christmas period. But most wrapping paper is not recycled and much of it ends up in landfills and is composed of micropladtics. In the United States, an additional five million tons of waste is generated over Christmas, four million of which is wrapping paper and shopping bags.
What about Christmas trees? Real or not —these trees contribute significantly to environmental degradation. Real tree branches cut off for decoration are discarded soon after the holiday season unless there’s a good plan to put them into good use. On the other hand, artificial trees are made from non-biodegradable materials like PVC and can take hundreds of years to decompose if not recycled.
Carbon Footprint
The carbon footprint associated with Christmas celebrations can not be underestimated. Food consumption particularly meat and dairy is at an all time high, meaning greenhouse gas emissions surge too.
As people move about to take part in celebrations, the issue gets more intensified. Increased use of personal and public vehicles and flights leads to higher carbon emissions.
How can we have a sustainable Christmas?
Despite the above contributors to environmental damage, it’s still possible to have a pleasant, fun – filled Christmas that’s cognizant of the environment.
Here are some actionable suggestions:
Eco-Friendly Gifts
How about giving experiences rather than physical gifts—such as tickets to events or vouchers for activities—which can reduce waste significantly. Should gifts be a must, consider promoting eco-preneurs making products from sustainable materials.
Sustainable Decorations
Resist traditional decorations which have no use after the holidays. Opt for natural elements like pine cones, dried fruits, or homemade ornaments. When it comes to lighting, LED lights consume less energy than traditional bulbs and can help reduce electricity usage.
Responsible Travel
Should there be need for travel, carpooling or using public transport are better options. For those flying, booking direct flights can help reduce emissions associated with layovers.
Recycling and Composting
Wrapping paper can be safely kept to be used in the next season. After the holidays, ensure that real Christmas trees are composted or recycled instead of being thrown away.
Avoid food waste
Plan means consciously to reduce waste. Recycle where possible.
Conclusion
Purpose to make this a green Christmas. Count the environmental impact of your actions. Plan consciously – From air pollution to the staggering amount of waste generated during this time, our holiday traditions come with significant ecological costs.
Merry Christmas!
