3 ways to have a sustainable holiday season in Melbourne
As the year draws to an end and we begin to think about enjoying the holiday season - from enjoying baked goodies to shopping and ringing in the New Year with family and friends.
We must also keep in mind that the holidays are also a time when we’re tempted to buy, go and do as much as possible and our waste and consumption skyrocket.
Fortunately, there are ways to practice sustainability while celebrating the season in Melbourne. We explore three below.
1. Gift responsibly
You know the saying – the best things in life aren’t things. It might seem cheesy, but this is often very true when it comes to gifts.
There are heaps of ways to give the perfect present without buying anything manufactured, including -
- Giving something handmade;
- Purchase tickets for an upcoming event; and
- Making a donation to charity in their name.
Sometimes, the most valuable gift is your time. If your friend just had a baby, for example, there are few things they'll appreciate more than an IOU for an evening of childcare.
If you do want to take the material route, shop local and support Melbourne craftspeople. Head to Heide to pick up some last-minute presents at the Heide Markers Market or pop into the Rose Street Market in Fitzroy on Saturday or Sunday.
Support local business this festive season and pop into the Rose Street Market in Fitzroy on Saturday or Sunday to pick up your last minute gifts.
2. Clean up with care
We have to say it – eventually the holiday season must come to an end. Following the festivities, you’ll have a lot of things to pack away, tidy up and dispose of.
During the holidays, landfills go into overdrive. Avoid contributing to this by understanding how to dispose of certain items properly. Christmas lights, for example, should never go in the landfill, nor should your old mobile phone or other electronics if Santa surprises you with an upgrade.
Repurpose or donate unwanted gifts instead of turning them into waste.
Repurposing and donating are even better options for would-be waste. Don’t worry; we won’t tell your office Kris Kringle.
Planet ARK has a great ‘12 do’s of Christmas‘ campaign to help us help the planet during the holiday season.
3. Choose sustainable foods and save those leftovers
If you’re entertaining over Christmas and New Year’s, design your menu around local, seasonal and organic food choices. This will not only make for a more sustainable meal but most likely a tastier, healthier one too!
Design your menu around local, seasonal and organic food choices. Head down to your local market or farmers market for inspiration!
It’s also important to be careful about waste. Confirm who’s coming so you don’t make too much and be sure to save leftovers. According to Planet Ark, 57 per cent of Aussies pack up Christmas dinner and enjoy it on Boxing Day. This year, we’d love to see that number inch closer to 100.
At Nelson Alexander, we know it doesn’t get better than spending the holidays in Melbourne. Here’s to wishing you all a safe, happy and, of course, sustainable holiday season.
