6th December 2021

12 Top Tips for a Green Christmas

With COP26 recently sparking many conversations about what we can do to help protect our planet, South Devon College’s Sustainability Lead, Matt Green, has put together some tips to have a greener Christmas this year.

So, let’s get straight to it!

1. Turn your existing houseplant into a modern looking Christmas tree

All you’ll need is some fairy lights!

2. Buy products with less packaging

When you’re food shopping, try and choose things that are light on packaging, or buy loose items.

3. Try a meat-free Christmas dinner

Why not try something new and have a meat-free Christmas by swapping turkey for a plant-based menu instead?

4. Buy useful presents

Avoid buying too many presents that will end up being thrown out or unused. Instead, make every gift count by purchasing things with value, purpose and meaning.

5. Shop local

Give your local shops and markets some love this Christmas. As well as supporting independent businesses, you’re likely to seek out special finds you won’t get elsewhere.

6. Recycle or make your own Christmas decorations

Foraging for pine cones and holly is the perfect excuse to enjoy the great outdoors.

7. Re-wear your Christmas jumper

Avoid buying a new Christmas jumper this year. A recent study shows that up to 95% of them are made using plastic.

8. Make use of your leftovers

If you have too many food leftovers, see what you can freeze. Or why not donate some to an elderly neighbour, local food bank or soup kitchen? Compost any other waste.

9. Send e-cards instead

Try using a free design app if you want to get creative. You’re bound to know some people who won’t be able to receive an e-card but why not try giving them a call to wish them good will? If a card is needed, try to find ones made from recycled materials and not containing plastics such as glitter.

Check out the South Devon College e-card below!

10. If you’ve got a fake tree already, keep using it

Make it last as long as possible. But look into more environmentally sound options when it eventually comes to replacing it. If you do want to get a fake one, for whatever reason, try a second hand one or FB marketplace for a pre-loved one.

11. Re-use Christmas tree decorations or go second-hand

Do your best to reuse them each year – and it doesn’t even have to be on your tree. You could use baubles as table decorations or place names, or you could use string to hang them on door handles.

12. Treat someone and the planet with a plant this Christmas

When it comes to selecting gifts, why not opt for something such as a potted indoor plant. Not only is it kind to the planet, but it means the receiver will find joy in the gift long after the decorations have come down.

We hope you enjoyed these top tips for a greener Christmas this year! To find out more about what we do as a College all year round to be as green as possible, visit our Sustainability page.