Celebrating the Eco-Friendly Way

The holiday season brings joy — and an abundance of waste. In fact, the United States produces 25% more solid waste between Thanksgiving and New Year’s than at any other time of the year.

Much of this increase comes from disposable dinnerware, gift wrap, and decorations that are discarded shortly after use. These items, often made of plastic or non-recyclable materials, typically end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and resource depletion. This isn’t good for the planet, or for us.

If you are looking to minimize the environmental impact of your celebrations, here are some simple steps you can take.

Ditch the plastic (and maybe some of the paper, too)

First, let me just say that I completely understand why people opt for disposable plates and utensils — large gatherings can mean a sink overflowing with dishes. But avoiding that mess can contribute to a much bigger one. A plastic fork, for example, takes between 200 and 450 years to decompose. Plastic plates can take up to 500 years. The average human lifespan, meanwhile, is just 72 years.

That makes paper plates the obvious choice, right? Not exactly. While far better for the planet than plastic, not all paper plates are created equal. The vast majority aren’t as eco-friendly as one might assume; production requires deforestation, and most have a wax or plastic coating that prevents them from being recycled or breaking down.

The good news is that you’ve got other options: products made from alternative resources, like bamboo, palm leaves, and sugarcane, are compostable, offering an eco-friendly single-use solution.

Rethink wrapping, reduce packaging

Gift wrap creates a surprising amount of waste, especially the shiny paper that can’t be recycled once the glitter or foil is added. I used to buy rolls of it without thinking, but over the years, I’ve shifted toward wrapping that can be reused or recycled. Fabric bags, scarves, boxes, or even a simple piece of cloth tied with twine feel just as festive, and they don’t go straight into the trash.

If you prefer paper, look for recycled kraft paper or something clearly marked as recyclable. A plain sheet can become beautiful with a sprig of greenery or a small piece of ribbon you already have on hand.

It also helps to be mindful when you’re choosing gifts. Packaging matters more than we realize. Buying from makers who use minimal filler or sustainable materials cuts down on waste before anything even arrives at your door. And if you’re ordering online, consolidated shipping goes a long way in reducing all the extra boxes that pile up during the holidays.

Decorate with what you already own

Holiday decorations can add up quickly, and most of them are made from materials that don’t break down. Before buying anything new, I like to pull out what I already have and see what can be refreshed. Old ribbon, leftover fabric, or ornaments that have been tucked away for years can be repurposed into something sweet and simple.

Natural materials also make beautiful decor with almost no waste. Pinecones, dried citrus, or homemade paper ornaments add a warm, handmade feel. They’re easy to compost or store for another year, depending on what you create.

If something no longer fits your style, donating it keeps it out of the trash and gives it a second life in someone else’s home.

Choose cleaners that create less waste

Another way to reduce holiday waste is to reevaluate what you’re cleaning with. Natural cleaners, like Cleaning Mama’s Fresh Scent Range, are biodegradable and made in small batches, which tends to have a smaller footprint from start to finish. The ingredients break down more easily, and when the packaging is thoughtful and minimal, there’s less to throw away later.

I like knowing that what I’m using on my counters isn’t adding to the growing pile of plastic that shows up this time of year. A bottle you can recycle, a formula that’s gentle on the environment, and a product made in limited runs all help reduce waste throughout its lifecycle. It’s a simple shift, but over a season full of extra cooking, hosting, and tidying, it makes a noticeable difference.

Small choices add up to a gentler season

The holidays will always come with a little extra — more gatherings, more cooking, more movement throughout the house. But the choices we make along the way can soften the impact. Reusing what we have, choosing materials that return to the earth, and being thoughtful about what comes into our homes all add up. And that, to me, is worth celebrating.

Looking for more holiday tips? Check out these posts.

Eco-Friendly Holiday FAQs

Are compostable plates and utensils better than plastic for holiday gatherings? ▼

Yes. Compostable options made from bamboo, palm leaves, or sugarcane break down much faster and require fewer resources to produce. They can be a good alternative when reusable dishes aren’t practical for large groups.

What are some sustainable gift-wrapping ideas? ▼

Reusable fabric bags, scarves, boxes, and simple kraft paper all work well. Adding natural elements like twine, greenery, or dried citrus keeps the wrapping festive without creating more waste.

How do natural cleaners reduce holiday waste? ▼

Natural, biodegradable cleaners made in small batches often come with more responsible packaging, which lowers their overall environmental impact. They break down safely, use fewer synthetic ingredients, and usually generate less plastic waste throughout their lifecycle.

What are easy eco-friendly holiday decor ideas? ▼

Decor made from natural or repurposed items — pinecones, dried fruit, handmade paper ornaments, or ribbons you already have — keeps things festive without added waste. Before buying anything new, reuse or donate what you can.

How can I make my holiday celebrations more sustainable without a lot of effort? ▼

Focus on simple habits: use what you already own, choose materials that can be recycled or reused, consolidate online orders, and keep cleaning routines gentle and minimal. These small decisions add up and make the season feel calmer and more intentional.

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