During the holiday season, Americans generate approximately 25% more waste than usual, amounting to an extra 1 million tons of waste per week between Thanksgiving and New Year's Day. This surge is largely due to discarded wrapping paper, gift bags, and food waste, underscoring the environmental impact of holiday festivities. This year, why not celebrate in a way that’s kinder to the planet? Here are 5 easy swaps to make your holiday season zero-waste and just as magical.
1. Swap Traditional Wrapping Paper for Furoshiki or Recycled Options
Most wrapping paper ends up in the trash, especially if it’s coated with glitter or foil. Instead, try furoshiki, the Japanese art of wrapping gifts with fabric. Use scarves, tea towels, or pieces of fabric that can be reused again and again.
If fabric isn’t your thing, opt for recycled kraft paper or repurpose materials like old maps, newspapers, or even last year’s holiday cards. Add a touch of nature by tying your package with twine and decorating it with pinecones or sprigs of greenery.
2. Use Reusable Gift Bags and Boxes
Skip the single-use gift bags and go for reusable cloth bags, thrifted decorative tins, or reusable gift boxes that can be reused year after year. These options are not only sustainable but also add a stylish touch to your gift-giving. Our reusable cotton bulk bags also work great for gift wrapping, and can even be a part of the gift itself.
Pro Tip: Encourage the recipient to “re-gift” the bag or box for someone else to continue the zero-waste cycle.
3. Opt for Sustainable Decorations
Instead of buying new plastic ornaments or tinsel, decorate with natural materials. Think dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and foraged pinecones. You can also DIY garlands using popcorn, cranberries, or fabric scraps.
For lights, switch to LED string lights, which are energy-efficient and last much longer than traditional options. Read more about sustainable decorations here.
4. Reduce Waste from Holiday Meals
The holidays often mean big meals—and big leftovers. Plan your menu carefully to avoid food waste and store any extras in reusable containers. Need sustainable food storage solutions? Try our reusable silicone bowl covers or cut-to-size wax wrap roll instead of plastic wrap our foil. Consider composting food scraps instead of throwing them away. If you are local to Las Vegas, we offer a free community compost program! Read about that here.
Another swap? Ditch single-use plates and utensils for reusable dishware and bakeware. If you’re hosting, ask guests to bring their own containers for leftovers to minimize waste even further. Or find extras secondhand and have them ready for guests.
5. Give Thoughtful, Eco-Friendly Gifts
Choose gifts that align with sustainability, like reusable water bottles, bamboo products, sustainable self-care products or experiences such as cooking classes or event tickets. Homemade gifts are another great option—think baked goods, handmade candles, or personalized photo albums.
For gift packaging, avoid plastic tape and use washi tape or compostable alternatives to keep your wrapping zero-waste.
Why Zero-Waste Holidays Matter
The holidays are about love, gratitude, and giving—and making simple, eco-friendly swaps helps extend that care to the planet. The waste we generate really never goes "away," so it's time we shift the way we celebrate. By reducing waste, you’re not only lightening your environmental impact but also inspiring others to do the same.
This holiday season, let’s make a collective effort to create less waste and more joy. After all, a greener Mother Earth is a gift we can all share!
What are your favorite zero-waste holiday tips? Let us know in the comments! 🌍🎄
