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- The tree
What would Christmas be without something green and leafy to swap presents under? Did you know that the UK buys up to eight million trees every December? This sadly leads to an awful lot of waste. Consider renting a sustainable tree from your favourite garden centre (who may need the support) or drape the tinsel around your best houseplant instead? Artificial trees are fine if you plan to keep re-using them, but perhaps look for a pre-loved one for a cheaper, greener alternative.
- The decorations
Now that you have found your tree (or houseplant), it is time to give it a sustainable makeover. Head to a nearby park and challenge the kids to find red berries, pinecones and conkers they can paint to create baubles and wreaths. Crumble old Styrofoam or use cotton wool buds to resemble fake snow or fill old wine bottles with tiny LED fairy lights. Assemble potpourri bowls from dried citrus fruit peels and petals from the garden for that extra Christmassy feel.
- The gifts and cards
Research and source presents from eco-friendly brands, go plastic-free or reduce carbon by shopping locally online. For the wrapping, reuse and decorate paper and packaging from online deliveries. For a personal touch, you can handmake your own Christmas cards or cut the waste altogether by sending festive animated e-cards to family and friends.
- The food
Food is a crucial element of our winter holiday traditions. Have you flirted with veggie or vegan swaps this year? Going meat free is the biggest way you can reduce your carbon footprint during a festive feast. But if that sounds like a seasonal sin, go organic and free range by supporting small farms in your area. The second biggest way is to eliminate food waste where possible. Buy products with minimal packaging and try not to over cater. Freeze or reinvent those lovely leftovers. Alternatively, contact your local food bank to see if you can safely drop off donations to support vulnerable communities during this difficult time.
RCI Bank is committed to helping our savers make the best decisions for the future. 2020 has been far from conventional, so why should the holidays attempt to be? These sustainable swaps are just one way we can all do our part to stay safe, save money and feel really good this Christmas.
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