Sustainable Holiday Best Practices

Written By Ashley Kurth

Sustainable Gifting: A Guide to More Meaningful Holidays

The holiday season is a time for giving, but the excess consumerism can weigh heavily on both our planet and our wallets. The good news? You can still spread cheer while making conscious choices. If you're looking for ways to use your dollars more sustainably and thoughtfully, here are a few simple tips that benefit the environment, local communities, and your loved ones.

1. Shop Small, Local, and Secondhand

One of the easiest ways to make an immediate impact is by changing where you shop. Check out Paloma Vintage/Trash to Treasure Movement’s local DC Area shopping guide.

  • Shopping local and small helps channel more money directly back into your community. It supports local artisans and business owners, fosters a vibrant local economy, and significantly reduces the shipping emissions associated with online retail giants.

  • Shopping secondhand helps keep perfectly good treasures out of landfills and extends the life cycle of existing products. Plus, secondhand items often boast better quality, are more affordable, and offer the kind of unique charm you simply can't find in a big box store.

2. Swap Your Holiday Attire

Holiday parties often mean a new outfit, but this year, try swapping instead of shopping.

  • Find or host a clothing and accessory swap. You can find all types of swaps, from casual to high-end designer events, or simply host one with your friends.

  • The benefit? You get a fresh-to-you look for free, and your friends get a chance to refresh their own closets. What better way to spend quality time with loved ones than over shared laughs and sustainable fashion?

3. Ditch the Disposable Gift Wrap

Gift wrap contributes a surprising amount of waste each year. Opt for creative, reusable alternatives to make your presents stand out:

  • Use cloth, fabric scraps, or scarves to wrap your gifts. The wrapping becomes part of the gift itself.

  • Repurpose old clothing with pretty patterns.

  • Look into the Japanese art of furoshiki for beautiful, eco-friendly wrapping ideas that are surprisingly simple.

4. Opt for Consumable Gifts

Gifts that disappear are gifts that don't end up in a landfill or cluttering a closet.

  • Think gourmet foods, specialty coffee beans, high-quality bath bombs, or local wine and spirits.

  • These gifts are often deeply appreciated, as they provide an enjoyable experience that doesn't overstay its welcome.

5. Give the Gift of Choice

Returns are a major logistical and environmental headache for retailers. Avoid the guesswork and reduce unnecessary returns by purchasing gift cards instead of specific items. It guarantees your loved one gets something they genuinely want or need.

6. Prioritize Experiences Over Material Items

The most valuable gifts aren't always things you can hold. Experiences create lasting memories.

  • Consider tickets to a concert or play, a cooking class, a museum membership, or a certificate for a spa day or a nice dinner out.

  • These gifts are meaningful, memorable, and often produce no physical waste.

The Most Valuable Gift of All

Remember, the most luxurious and meaningful gifts often have the least impact on the environment.

  • Homemade gifts are fantastic if you are crafty. They carry a personal touch and story that store-bought items can never match.

  • The absolute best gift you can give this holiday season is simply your time and attention. A dedicated afternoon, a shared meal, or a heartfelt conversation is a gift that truly keeps on giving.

This holiday season, let's gift with intention. Your loved ones—and the planet—will thank you for it.

Sustainability Resources

Ashley Kurth
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