1) Rent your tree
No, we’re not making this up – you can actually rent a natural Christmas tree. It comes with a root system so that when you’re done with it it can go back into the ground for another 12 months, ready to be used the next year. The service even includes delivery and pickup. www.treesforrent.com
2) Use rechargeable batteries
If you’re like us, you go through loads of batteries at Christmas. Disposable batteries contain a lot of harmful chemicals that don’t biodegrade easily – why not swap them for a rechargeable set? Go for extra-smug eco points with this add on for a solar powered charger (pictured).
3) Make your candles more eco-friendly
Did you know that normal candles are made from petroleum residue? They’re not good for the environment or your health. Eco-friendly alternatives include those made from soy, beeswax or vegetable based wax, like these from goldenhoney.co.uk
4) Rent your party dress
Christmas is the perfect excuse to buy a new dress, but how many of us get sick of the same one? Girl Meets Dress is a brilliant website where you can choose two designer party dresses to be delivered to your door, try them on and only pay for the one you want to rent. Prices start at £30, and they’re running a 50% off for Christmas rentals with the code CHRISTMAS50. www.girlmeetsdress.com
5) Use LED Christmas lights
Not only do LED lights use significantly less energy, they are also cooler to the touch, making them less of a fire hazard. A wide range of indoor and outdoor Christmas lights are now available on the high street, like these from B&Q.
6) Use natural or edible Christmas decorations
As any self-respecting child will tell you, edible Christmas decorations are great fun and won’t go to waste. Try popcorn garlands, candy canes, satsumas and wrapped cookies or chocolates. Natural decorations such as twigs and pinecones are also less wasteful and a lot cheaper – just take a walk down to your local wood.
7) Use recycled cards and wrapping paper
We all know about recycling our cards and paper after Christmas is over, but what about using recycled products in the first place? Paperchase have a great range currently on a 3 for 2 offer, so going green doesn’t have to mean great expense.
8) Give your gifts an eco-makeover
There are loads of options for making your giving greener. If you don’t actually want anything, why not get people to buy an Oxfam Unwrapped gift, adopt an animal or make a charity donation for you instead? Alternatively, you can make a pact with them not to buy each other presents using this smart certificate from Miss Minimalist. You could also offer to buy something that person would be buying anyway, like their magazine subscription.
Of course, Christmas is also a great time to put your feet up for a few minutes and see how you can make the whole of next year more eco-friendly with one of our home energy solutions. Why not take our free assessment now?
