Christmas can be a season of excess, but it doesn’t have to be about creating waste. Making a few thoughtful choices is a simple way to have a more conscious celebration that feels just as festive, without the pressure to accumulate things you don’t need.
From choosing reusable decorations to finding gifts that will be genuinely loved and used, there are many small ways to reduce your impact. It’s about focusing on connection and quality, not quantity.
We have been making certified organic beauty gifts in the UK for many years, always with a light footprint in mind. Our gift packaging is designed to be recycled or reused, and our products are made with sustainably sourced ingredients, so you can give a gift that is kind to their skin and the planet.
At a glance
- Focus on reducing waste rather than chasing abstract ‘eco’ labels
- Rethink wrapping with reusable fabric (Furoshiki) or recyclable paper
- Look for gifts with a long life, like our plant-based shampoo bars
- Shop with brands that have clear, transparent charity partnerships
- Plan meals to minimise food waste after the big day
Rethink your Christmas tree choices
Choosing between a real and an artificial tree involves a few trade-offs. If you already own an artificial tree, the most conscious choice is to keep using it for as long as possible - it can take at least ten years of use to balance out its carbon footprint.
If you prefer a real tree, look for one grown in the UK to minimise transport miles. Checking for FSC certification ensures it comes from a responsibly managed forest, and choosing a potted tree with roots means you have the option to replant it in your garden after the festive season.
Decorate with intention and longevity
Decorating is one of the joys of the season, and it’s a great area to get creative with low-waste options. Instead of buying new plastic baubles, you could explore local charity shops for unique vintage finds.
You can also bring the outside in by crafting decorations from natural materials like driftwood, pinecones and dried orange slices, which add a beautiful, festive scent to your home. When it comes to lights, opt for low-energy LEDs, and choose candles made from soy or beeswax for a cosy glow.
Give thoughtful, long-lasting gifts
A great gift is one that is genuinely wanted and will be used for a long time. Skin care is always a welcome choice, especially when it’s tailored to the person you’re gifting to.
Our beautiful organic beauty Christmas gift sets contain sustainably grown ingredients and are designed to be a treat for the skin. For a gift that also supports wellbeing, our Alexandra Kay aromatherapy sets combine wearable jewellery with pure essential oil blends.
For smaller presents and stocking fillers, look for items with minimal or biodegradable packaging. Our One Balm is a multi-purpose hero in a plant-based pot, and our popular scalp-kind shampoo bars are a perfect plastic-free option.
Choose reusable cards and wrapping
Store-bought cards and wrapping paper often contain glitter and plastic coatings that make them impossible to recycle. Instead, consider making your own cards from recycled paper for a personal touch.
When it comes to wrapping, try the Japanese art of Furoshiki, using beautiful fabric squares that can be reused for years. If you prefer paper, choose a plain, recyclable variety and decorate it with natural elements like a sprig of holly or a pinecone instead of plastic-based ribbons and bows.
Plan a low-waste Christmas dinner
Christmas dinner is often a source of significant food waste. A little planning can make a big difference. Write a detailed shopping list and buy only what you need, focusing on seasonal, local produce where possible.
If you do have leftovers, get creative with recipes for the following days, or see if a local food bank or community fridge can accept unopened, non-perishable items. Even Christmas crackers can be a source of plastic waste; consider investing in reusable ones that you can fill with small, thoughtful treats like a travel-sized skin care mini.
Frequently asked questions
What are some good plastic-free gift ideas?
Solid beauty bars are a brilliant plastic-free gift. Our shampoo bars come in a recyclable cardboard box and provide up to 62 washes without the need for a plastic bottle. Another great option is a multi-purpose balm in a glass jar or plant-based pot, like our One Balm.
Is a real or fake Christmas tree better for the environment?
It depends. If you already have an artificial tree, continuing to use it for as many years as possible is the best option. If you are buying new, a locally grown, real tree that can be replanted or composted after Christmas generally has a lower carbon footprint than a new plastic tree that has been shipped from overseas.
How can I avoid food waste at Christmas?
Meal planning is key. Plan your menu for Christmas Day and the following days, make a detailed shopping list, and stick to it. If you have leftovers, use them in recipes for Boxing Day. Unopened, non-perishable goods can often be donated to local food banks.
Are Green People’s Christmas gifts recyclable?
Yes, we design our packaging with its whole lifecycle in mind. Our Christmas gift sets use recyclable cardboard and plastics. We also offer products in glass or post-consumer recycled packaging.
We hope this has given you some ideas for a thoughtful, low-waste, organic Christmas. If you need any more help choosing a gift, our friendly UK customer care team are happy to help on 01403 740350 or on social @GreenPeopleUK.
MEET CHARLOTTE, FOUNDER OF GREEN PEOPLE
Charlotte Vøhtz, founder of Green People, has 25+ years of experience in the natural and organic beauty industry.
A recognised leader in the field of organic beauty, Charlotte helped inform the UK's first organic beauty standards and was voted the People's Choice in the 2023 list of Who's Who in Natural Beauty.
A published author, she wrote the organic beauty bible 'Naturally Gorgeous'. Previously, she qualified as a nurse and spent over 10 years working in pharmaceuticals.
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