Day 1: A Partridge in a Pear Tree—Start with Zero Waste Wrapping
12 Days of Christmas: Sustainability Style
Celebrate the holiday season while making sustainable choices! This Christmas Blog series will not only get us ready for the holidays, but it will share some advise on adopting eco-friendly habits and discovering thoughtful gifts that make a positive impact on the planet. Each day includes product recommendations that encourage greener shopping.
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Did you know that in just the United States, it is estimated that 2.6 billion pounds of wrapping paper is thrown away each year? That number is embarrassing. But the great news is that we have the power as individual consumers to divert some of that landfill by going with alternative gift-wrapping methods or by choosing more ecofriendly options that go in to it.
When I think of “a partridge in a pear tree,” I can’t help but wonder what that poor bird did to deserve being the opening act of a 12-day gift-giving marathon. But in the spirit of the holidays, let’s draw inspiration from this iconic image. After all, what better way to honor a partridge than by preserving its pear-tree habitat?
One simple, impactful way to embrace sustainability during the holidays is by rethinking how we wrap our gifts. Every year, countless rolls of wrapping paper are shredded in a flurry of holiday excitement—most of it destined for landfills because metallic finishes, glitter, and plastic make it non-recyclable. It’s like giving the planet a giant “bah humbug.”
How about instead we consider that partridge’s eco-friendly vibe and explore sustainable, waste-free wrapping alternatives. Spoiler alert: they’re just as festive, way more thoughtful, and much kinder to the Earth.
Sustainable Wrapping Ideas Worth Singing About
1. Reusable Fabric Gift Wrap (Furoshiki Style)
Think of this as the couture of gift wrapping. Inspired by a Japanese tradition, furoshiki transforms fabric squares into elegant, reusable wraps. Bonus: Pick a pattern that doubles as a scarf, tote, or table runner, and your wrapping becomes part of the gift. It’s like a sustainability BOGO!
2. Recycled Kraft Paper Rolls
For those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic, kraft paper is your best friend. Add a little twine, a sprig of rosemary, or even some cinnamon sticks, and voilà—your gift looks straight out of a rustic holiday Hallmark movie. Extra points if you let your kids decorate the paper with drawings.
3. Biodegradable Tape
Yes, tape. That gift wrapping hero can have an eco-friendly upgrade! Biodegradable tape keeps everything in place without guilt. Plus, you can impress your family with phrases like “plant-based adhesive” over eggnog.
Sustainability Meets Festivity
By swapping traditional wrapping for these greener options, you’re giving more than just the gift inside—you’re giving the planet a much-needed break.
Ready to give zero-waste wrapping a try? Here are some suggestions to get you started.
10 Sustainable Wrapping Products
This holiday season, let’s ditch the wasteful traditions and aim for gifts that truly keep on giving. Because nothing says “happy holidays” like a little less trash and a lot more thoughtfulness.