Thoughtful Gift-Giving
As the holiday season approaches, many of us strive to create as little waste as possible. One effective way to achieve this goal is by reusing gift wrapping supplies. Instead of buying new materials each year, consider using items you already have on hand, such as gift bags, tissue paper, ribbon, bows, and gently folded wrapping paper. These items can be saved and reused for future gift-giving occasions.
Another zero waste strategy is to use cloths, scarves, or baskets as gift packaging. Not only are these items eco-friendly, but they can also add a unique and personal touch to your gifts. Thrift stores are a great resource for finding these types of materials, and any fabric can be cut down to wrap a gift.
When it comes to adorning gifts, look to nature for inspiration. Pine or cedar cuttings, dried orange slices, or hemp twine are beautiful and sustainable options. They add a natural touch to your gifts, while also reducing waste.
It's important to note that while plain wrapping paper is recyclable, it may not be recycled once the gift is open. By choosing reusable materials, we ensure that our gifts are not only beautiful, but also have a minimal impact on the environment. In short, the key to zero-waste gift wrapping is to use reusable materials and to think creatively.
When it comes to gift-giving, there are many ways to stay true to our zero waste values. One option is to gift experiences, such as bowling, ice skating, or zip lining. These types of gifts create lasting memories and have minimal impact on the environment. Another way to reduce waste is to regift items that are in gently used condition, such as games, toys, unworn or outgrown clothes from your own collection.
Handcrafted goodies are also a great way to give a unique and personal gift. Last year, I made bath bombs and lip balm. The year before that, I made body scrub, felted soap, tiny pillows, hackey sacks, and knitted scarves. These types of gifts show thought and care, and can be tailored to the recipient's interests and preferences.
Another idea is to fill jars in the bulk section of your grocery store with yummy sweets like jelly beans or chocolate almonds, or even dried fruit for those who don't have a sweet tooth. These gifts can be customized to the recipient's taste and are a great way to reduce packaging waste.
When shopping for gifts, it's important to avoid unnecessary packaging. Choose items that don't come in packaging and kindly refuse plastic bags or tissue paper or brown bags when purchasing them at the store. Bring your own reusable bags, containers and wrapping materials. By doing so, we can ensure that our gifts not only bring joy to our loved ones, but also have a minimal impact on the environment.
Here’s what’s inside in the picture above:
-one potted baby Christmas cactus with tiny blossoms
-reusable glass jar of peppermint tea
-stainless-steel mesh tea ball infuser
-handmade herbal salve
-handmade soap
-handmade beeswax candle
-reusable jar of chocolate almonds
