Christmas is a celebration of love, family and overconsumption. That's why it's important to pay close attention to what and how much you buy, what you wrap your presents in and what kind of tree you put up. We've come up with some tips to make your Christmas as green as the branches on your pine tree.

Real vs. fake – Which one is better for the environment?

Producing, transporting and getting rid of artificial trees puts a huge burden on the environment. Living trees clean the air, you support local farmers by buying them and they can be composted after the holidays. So, when in doubt, buy a real pine tree instead of a fake one this year!

The wrapping of your Christmas presents should also be environmentally friendly!

The packaging material used during Christmas could be circled around the Earth 9 times! Buy cotton gift bags or wrap your gift in a tablecloth or tea towel instead. Wrap presents in recycled paper, cool newspapers or comics, and for decoration, collect natural ornaments such as pinecones.

Keep the environment in mind when buying Christmas presents!

Try to shop from local businesses, and buy products made from natural materials like wood, cotton or straw. Give presents that aid eco-friendliness, such as metal straws or lidded mugs. Purchase sustainably produced new products, but the best is if you upcycle or buy second-hand.

‘Tis the season to be a greenie - Watch your Christmas waste production

Garbage generation increases by 30% at Christmas, and 66% of people admit to buying more food than they need. As a result, the food thrown away could be used to cook 42 million Christmas dinners! Buy in moderation, choose eco-friendly gifts and packaging, and enjoy the holidays in a low-key way.

Ugly Christmas sweaters are not cool for the environment

95% of ugly Christmas sweaters are made of plastic materials, contributing to the spread of microplastics. Don’t buy them new! Look around in charity shops, and upcycle old pieces, so you can have the most unique ugly sweater of all.

We wish a merry and peaceful Christmas to all!