Embracing Green for the Holidays: A Guide to Ecological Festivities 2024

The holiday season is a perfect opportunity to make choices that reflect our care for loved ones and for nature. By being mindful of our gift giving and how we choose to celebrate, we can infuse the season with even more meaning and intention. From gift-giving to decorating, there are countless ways to celebrate the holidays while nurturing the magic of the season and nature.

Gift Giving

Gifting can be a meaningful way to celebrate the holidays. With thoughtful choices, it can also align with eco-friendly values. If gifting is part of your holiday celebrations, here are some ideas for thoughtful and eco-friendly gifts:

Books

Books are truly gifts that keep on giving, offering knowledge, inspiration, and the joy of discovery. Whether your recipient is passionate about nature, sustainability, or culture, books tailored to their interests can provide lasting value and spark meaningful conversations.

Support Small and Indigenous-Owned Businesses

Spread holiday cheer while supporting local and Indigenous artisans and entrepreneurs with thoughtful gifts:

• Support small and Indigenous-owned businesses by gifting locally made treasures such as handmade jams, vegan chocolates, organic spices, or soaps infused with native plants. Look for items packaged in reusable or eco-friendly materials.
• Seek out Indigenous-owned galleries or craft markets offering handmade ceramics, beadwork, jewelry, or artwork that tells a story and supports cultural preservation.
• Let your recipient choose their favorite items by gifting a card to a local or Indigenous-owned store, craft market, or online shop.

Crafting Kits

For creative spirits, crafting kits offer the joy of making while encouraging sustainable habits. Kits for candle-making, gardening, or DIY decor empower recipients to create their own eco-friendly masterpieces. These gifts inspire hands-on fun and a personal connection to sustainability.

Non-Material

Some of the most impactful gifts go beyond physical items and create lasting memories or provide meaningful support. This could include experiences, services, or even making a charitable donation on their behalf.

If you’re looking for more specific ideas, check out our timeless Holiday Gift Guide.

A couple wrapping holiday gifts. Photo by DragonImages, Adobe Stock.

Holiday Habits

Beyond gift-giving, other holiday traditions can also have an impact on the environment.

Pick a Tree, Any Tree

The debate between real and artificial trees continues.

• Real Trees: Choose locally grown options and compost them after use to give back to the soil.
• Artificial Trees: Extend their lifespan by using them year after year or donating them when no longer needed.
• Decorate with reusable or natural ornaments like pinecones, dried fruits, and LED lights for energy efficiency.

Still not sure? Read our in-depth guide.

Reducing Waste

Use recyclable or reusable wrapping materials like fabric, newspaper, or reusable gift bags. Get creative with DIY ornaments and decorations from items you already have at home.

Energy-Efficient Celebrations

Switch to LED lights for your holiday displays and adopt simple energy-saving habits like unplugging lights during the day.

An eco-friendly DIY ornament made from a slice of dried orange. Photo by meteoritka, Adobe Stock.

Enjoying Nature During the Holidays

Amid the hustle and bustle of the season, taking time to connect with nature can be a welcome break.

Outdoor Adventures

Bundle up and explore your local parks or forests. A winter hike, snowshoeing adventure, or even a simple walk among your neighbourhood trees can offer a refreshing change of pace.

Festive Activities in Nature

Visit a nearby wildlife sanctuary or simply observe the birds and animals in your area. Consider creating natural decorations like bird feeders to support local wildlife during the colder months.

Winter Gardening

For those with green thumbs, winter is a great time to plan your garden for the coming year. Indoors, you can start a small herb garden on your windowsill to enjoy fresh, homegrown flavours all season.

Girls running in the snow. Photo by Designpics, Adobe Stock.

Green Resolutions for the New Year

The holiday season is also an excellent time to set resolutions for a greener lifestyle in the year ahead:

• Swap single-use items for reusable alternatives, like a travel mug or glass food containers.
• Incorporate plant-based meals into your routine or grow some of your own herbs and vegetables to reduce food miles.
• Track your carbon footprint with tools like Tree Canada’s Carbon Tracker app.

Looking for more ideas? Here are 7 Easy Resolutions for a Greener Lifestyle for Beginners.

Celebrate with Care

The holidays can be both joyous and sustainable with small, intentional changes. Whether it’s giving thoughtfully, reducing waste, or spending time in nature, every action counts toward a healthier planet. Let’s make this season not just a time for celebration but also for stewardship.

Wishing you a festive and green holiday season!