Unwrap a Greener Christmas (Without Turning Into the Grinch)

Let’s face it - by the time December rolls around, we’re all just one Mariah Carey note away from decking the halls with way too much plastic, packaging, and poorly chosen presents.

But what if we told you that you could still sleigh Christmas and be kind to the planet? We’re talking fa-la-la-fabulous and low-impact. Ready to feel smug at the family lunch (without even trying)? Let’s go.

1. Rein(deer)-vent your wrapping

Still wrapping with shiny, glittery paper? We hate to be the Grinch, but that stuff’s about as recyclable as a snowman in summer. Instead, use:

  1. Old newspaper (add twine and a sprig of rosemary for rustic vibes)

  2. Reusable fabric wraps (hello, chic and sustainable)

  3. Recycled brown paper with potato stamp prints (bonus points if you stamp coffee cups)

It’s not just wrapping- it’s a whole look.

2. Get tree-sonably creative

Real tree vs fake tree is the eternal eco-debate. So how about skipping both? Try:

  1. Foraged branches in a big vase with fairy lights

  2. A “flat lay” tree taped on the wall with decorations

  3. A stack of books in tree shape (yes, coffee table books count)

Not only will you save space and money, but it’s also a great convo starter when your in-laws arrive.

3. Dine like you give a figgy pudding

Food waste spikes harder than your uncle’s brandy sauce on Christmas Day. This year, plan ahead:

  1. Cook with in-season produce (navel oranges, cherries, zucchini- go wild)

  2. Love your leftovers like they’re family

  3. Freeze extras for January when you’re too exhausted to cook

Pro tip: coffee-soaked desserts make for excellent use of leftover brews. (Trifle? Meet Munro.)

4. Turn your Chrissy lights down low

You don’t need a runway landing strip on your front lawn to prove you love Christmas. Try:

  1. Solar-powered fairy lights

  2. LED globes on a timer

  3. Candles made from soy or beeswax for that warm, cosy glow (and no power bill panic in January)

Less wattage. More wonderland.

5. Be a gift-giving genius (with sample packs, duh)

The most sustainable gift? Something that gets used. Our Pod & Parcel Sample Pack is the perfect pressie for the coffee snob, the newbie, or the cousin who still thinks pod coffee = bad coffee (bless).

It’s packed with our best blends, plastic-free, and guaranteed to be loved, brewed, and re-ordered. Zero waste, all taste. Honestly, it’s sensible gifting with a sexy little bow.

That’s a wrap (the recyclable kind, obviously)

So there you have it - 5 ways to make this Christmas merrier and more mindful. Let the others keep their glitter and gimmicks. Got any other tips? Let us know and get in touch on our socials. We’d love to hear what you have to say! You can find us here: https://www.facebook.com/podandparcel/ and @podandparcel.

P.S. Want to gift better?