Eco-friendly swaps for Christmas
Let’s face it, 2020 didn’t quite turn out to be the year we were expecting, but with the festive season fast approaching and the New Year just around the corner, we finally have a reason to celebrate!
While we’re eager to get the festivities started and ring in 2021, thanks to weeks of lockdown many of us have found new hobbies that could come in very useful when decorating our homes to feel merry and bright with an eco-friendly twist.
Whether you’re looking for a way to embrace your new love for DIY, or you’ve simply vowed to celebrate more sustainably this year, we spoke to Temple & Webster’s style team to uncover some easy and affordable alternatives for Christmas trimmings. From recycled decorations to handmade gifts, there’s no shortage of ways to stay eco-friendly during the festive break.
Take stock of your Christmas-decoration inventory
Before purchasing any new decorations, be sure you’ve looked through your collection from years passed and worked out what can be reused to dress your home this year. For anything worn or dated, a lick of paint or a new ribbon could it feel brand new in no time.
Use eco-friendly materials
Another great way to be kind to the environment is by opting for decorations made from eco-friendly or natural materials. Instead of reaching for plastic or polystyrene, try decorating with recyclable or compostable materials. Bamboo or wooden ornaments make a great alternative to those made from non-natural materials, plus, they add a lovely rustic and organic look to your decor.
Update an old wreath
If you have an old faux wreath with a need of a refresh, a selection of fresh flowers, a bit of ribbon, some florist wire and a pair of secateurs will do wonders! Easily upgrade your plain wreath with flowers that match your chosen colour scheme, and layer and secure them in place with the wire. For the perfect finishing touch, loop your ribbon through the middle of the wreath and tie it into a nice full bow.
Make your own gifts
Pulling off a more sustainable Christmas doesn’t have to end with your festive decor. Try your hand at making your own gifts this season. Nothing beats a gift like the edible kind such as rocky road or rum balls. For stylish presentation, store your homemade treats in glass jars decorated with ribbon, or transfer to a lined box or tin wrapped with brown paper and topped with a candy cane as the finishing touch.
Plant a tree
This Christmas, the Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife, the charity partner of Australia’s National Parks, is calling for all Aussies to support its mission of planting one million trees in bushfire-affected areas around Australia.
Just $10 will plant and maintain one tree, and while it may not be in your home, the tree will create a home for critically affected wildlife such as the koala and glossy black cockatoo, creating a legacy to live for generations to come.
