Reduce Your Christmas Waste
Batteries
Millions of batteries are sent to landfill each year. Consider using rechargeable batteries instead. Batteries and a battery charger could be the ideal gift!
Christmas Cards
Send e-cards instead. A range of these can be found free of charge on popular websites some of which are listed here. E-cards are available throughout the year and cover many other occasions including birthdays and anniversarys.
Christmas Lights
Use LED Christmas lights - they are very efficient and effective. Consider putting a timer on your outside lights so they don't remain on all night.
Christmas Trees
Artificial trees are excellent as they can be reused each year. However, if you still want a real tree, consider purchasing a tree with a root ball. You can use the tree year after year or alternatively you can plant it in your garden instead. If you have a real tree without a rootball, then make sure it is composted after Christmas. Your tree can be taken to one of the Council's temporary disposal sites or if you subscribe to the Garden Waste Collection Service we will collect it.
Gifts
Consider purchasing an 'experience'. These can range from balloon flights and theatre tickets to a day at a spa or a day motor racing.
Consider giving gift vouchers. You can be sure that the recipient will buy something they want and best of all, they can spend it during the sales so they will get better value for money!
Alternatively, why not consider sending a donation to a charity instead. Most charities provide opportunities to donate money. You could also sponsor an animal or you could buy a membership to an environmental organisation or trust.
Stamps
Save your postage stamps and give them to a charity to help them raise funds. Both local and national charities often collect them.
Wrapping Paper
Consider the alternatives that can be used again such as boxes, tins and gift bags.