By Dr. Francisco Suárez Hernández*
Christmas is a time of celebration, joy and family reunions. However, it is also a time that can have a significant environmental impact due to increased consumption, waste generation and the carbon footprint associated with many of our traditions. Adopting sustainable practices this holiday can help minimize the impact on our planet, encouraging a more responsible and conscious approach to our celebrations.
Ecological Decorations
Traditional Christmas decorations, such as plastic trees, can take centuries to decompose. Opting for a natural Christmas tree, preferably sustainably grown, is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. After the holidays, the tree can be recycled or used as compost. In addition, decorations can be made using recycled or natural materials, such as paper, fabric or pine cones, which makes them eco-friendly and can be a fun family activity.
An excellent practice is to buy live Christmas trees or sales of trees in pots that can be replanted after the season and it is key that it is in a climatic zone suitable for their growth.
Sustainable Gifts
One of the most anticipated Christmas customs is the exchange of gifts. This year, consider opting for sustainable gifts. Look for ethically made products, such as organic clothing, or gift experiences instead of objects. Another alternative is homemade gifts, which can include everything from candy to crafts. You can also consider using reusable packaging, such as cloth or wooden boxes, instead of traditional wrapping paper.
Responsible Food
Christmas dinners, while a fundamental part of the celebration, often result in a lot of food waste. To enjoy a more sustainable meal, opt for local and seasonal ingredients, which have a smaller ecological footprint. Planning simpler menus and avoiding excess can help minimize waste. You can also organize a system of donating leftover meals to local organizations.
Donations and Volunteering
Christmas is an ideal time to share and help those who need it most. Consider donating to local charities or participating in volunteer activities and social cause events. This contributes to improving the lives of others, promoting a spirit of generosity and solidarity among community members.
In my case, I participated and thanks to the leadership of Naike Hechem and the team at The C-Class, who once again organized a great Christmas event with an extraordinary social cause, which was a Christmas art auction by the Integrarte Foundation** that seeks to connect society with young talents with disabilities through art.
(Francisco Suárez, with work by Paulina “Pau”, participant of Fundación Integrarte)
(Francisco Suárez with work by Diego, participant of Fundación Integrarte)
(Francisco Suárez and Naike Hechem, general director of The C-Class)
(Items for auction and sale by Fundación Integrarte)
We recommend: Fewer artificial Christmas trees, higher prices: China’s tariff delay does not help save the holidays in the US
I share with you some successful projects and practices that combine sustainability and Christmas celebrations
1. Biodegradable decorations: Manufacture and sale of Christmas decorations based on natural and biodegradable materials.
3. Gift Exchange Events: Exchange markets where people can exchange gifts instead of buying them.
4. Used toy collection campaigns: Projects that collect toys in good condition to donate to children from low-income families.
5. LED lighting at events: Using LED lights in Christmas decorations to reduce energy consumption.
6. Eco-Friendly Gift Kits: Creating kits that contain sustainable products, such as organic soaps or handmade candles.
7. Gift seed set: Kits containing native plant seeds as gifts to promote biodiversity.
8. Team volunteer activities: Encourage offices to do community work during the Christmas season.
9. Christmas toy factory: Projects that convert recycled materials into toys to donate.
10. Post-Christmas community cleanup events: Organize cleanups in local areas to collect trash after the holidays.
11. Packaging recycling campaigns: Programs that organize the collection of wrapping paper and other packaging for recycling.
12. Water Conservation Kits: Gifts that educate about how to save water at home during the winter.
13. Recycling education for children: Workshops in schools that educate children about the importance of recycling during Christmas.
14. Activities to learn about cultures: Organize events that integrate different Christmas traditions and their relationship with sustainability.
These examples reflect how it is possible to celebrate Christmas, they are also business opportunities in a way that respects the environment, encourages solidarity and contributes to the well-being of the community.
Adopting sustainable practices at Christmas helps protect our planet and can enrich our family and community celebrations. By being mindful of our choices and prioritizing environmental impact, we can enjoy a Christmas that reflects our values and hope for a more sustainable future.
Let’s celebrate responsibly, ensuring that future generations can also enjoy this magical season and be ambassadors:
To promote millions of sustainable actions across the planet!!!
If you like to know more about Join: https://www.fundacionintegrarte.org
About the author:
*Dr. Francisco Suárez Hernández is Director of Public Affairs and Strategic Relations FEMSA. Former President of the Council of the World Environment Center.
Email: (email protected)
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