The holiday season is a wonderful time to celebrate! As we gather with family and friends, host parties, and indulge in festive meals, we can also be mindful of our impact on the environment. Here are some tips to help you host sustainable celebrations while balancing fun and comfort!

Buy Local To Reduce Pollution

When you shop at local businesses, you help keep money within your community. Local shops often reinvest in the area, creating jobs and supporting local artisans and farmers. This strengthens the local economy and fosters a sense of community. Purchasing locally made products means that items don’t have to travel long distances, which significantly cuts down on transportation emissions and pollution! Additionally, shorter shipping routes when delivering your goods require less fuel, leading to higher resource optimization and savings!

Photo courtesy of Monstera via Pexels

Recycle and Reduce Waste When Gifting

The holiday season typically sees a significant increase in waste — about 25% more trash per household compared to other times of the year! By recycling, we can keep a substantial amount of this waste from going to landfills, helping to reduce the overall environmental impact.

Recycle and Dispose Properly

Here's one great idea for when you and your family or friends gather to share a meal or give gifts - Set up a recycling station at your gatherings to make it easy for guests to sort their waste!

Post cute notes that give tips and educate them on what can be recycled. This will help ensure that items like wrapping paper and holiday cards are disposed of correctly. Scroll down for a fun guide on what’s recyclable and what’s not!

Graphic courtesy of Camden

On the NAUGHTY List (Non-recyclable holiday waste) are:

• Bubble wrap

• Mixed-media mailers

• Foam packing peanuts

• Ribbons and bows

• Gift bags (if coated, laminated, dyed, or glittered)

• Sticky gift labels

On the NICE List (Recyclable holiday waste)

• Gift boxes

• Tissue paper

• Shoe boxes

• Cards & envelopes (without plastic or glitter)

• Paper gift bags

• Wrapping paper (non-metallic)

May this holiday season be an opportunity to champion sustainability and health within our communities. By supporting local businesses and opting for eco-friendly choices, we can make a lasting positive impact!

Please visit our Sustainable Living blogs on Simply Camden to learn more about what Camden is doing throughout the year to help meet our green goals. Happy Holidays!