Wrap Up A Sustainable Christmas - A Gift For A Better Future

The festive season is magical, but it also brings a surge in waste. This year, make Christmas greener by making small eco-friendly choices that make a big difference. Here are some simple ways that are kinder to the planet and easier on the pocket.

Deck the halls with less plastic

Deck the halls with what you have already, buy second hand, or invest in décor that stands the test of time. You can create a festive atmosphere at home by foraging foliage and displaying natural decorations like pinecones and holly. Skip glittery or plastic-coated wrapping that’s not recyclable – choose brown paper, reusable fabric wraps and bags instead.            

Tie gifts with natural twine or ribbon for a seasonal look instead of plastic tape. Don’t forget to recycle wrapping paper and packaging correctly. Keep all items clean, dry, and loose in your recycling bin. Visit MyWaste.ie for helpful information.

Give a low-waste gift

Gift an experience or something handmade or made locally - these gifts can allow us to spend time with loved ones and be much more personal. They are also much less likely to become waste - a win-win!

Locally bought gifts also have the added benefit of less packaging than online orders and helping our local economy. #ShopLocal

Avoid novelty gifts as they are more likely to turn into waste more quickly and consider donating unwanted items to charity or community groups.  

Festive food waste

Prevent food waste at Christmas by planning ahead, knowing what you already have and only buying what you need - making a list really helps!

Consider your portions. It is easy to pile the food high at Christmas but it can lead to a lot of waste (and a waste of money!)

Use your leftovers for easy-to-make meals and snacks throughout the days of Christmas. Don't forget to use your freezer to extend the shelf-life of your food.

Choose reusable bowls, plates, cups, and cutlery for festive gatherings instead of unstainable throw-away items.

Find out more on how to prevent festive food waste at StopFoodWaste.ie.

Watch some informative videos about Christmas cooking from celebrity chef Catherine Fulvio.

Christmas trees and lights

You can recycle your real Christmas trees for FREE at the Civic Amenity sites below. Make a switch to LED lights and rechargeable batteries for energy-efficient festive lighting.

• Civic Amenity Westlink Business Park, Athlone Road, Longford, Co. Longford, N39 EE36
• Civic Amenity Cloonaugh, Drumlish, Co. Longford, N39 E4F4

Full opening hours are available on Mulleadys.com/ChristmasOpeningHours.

Further Information 

Find out more on MyWaste.ie or on StopFoodWaste.ie

or 

Contact Longford County Council Environment Section: 
Tel: 043 334 34 62
Email: environment@longfordcoco.ie