At BRITA, we believe the festive season offers an opportunity to show love not just to our friends and family, but also to our planet. With over 2 billion people worldwide celebrating Christmas, the smallest of changes can collectively make a big difference.
Here are some simple ways to keep your environmental impact low this Christmas, with a little help from BRITA UK.
Christmas decorations can be festive without costing the planet. While incandescent Christmas lights might seem like a bargain, LED lights are more energy-efficient, shine brighter, last longer, and need replacing far less often. Many LED options also come with timers or solar-powered features, so you can’t really go wrong!
For ornaments, why not skip the throwaway decorations and invest in timeless pieces that can be cherished year after year as part of your family’s traditions. Better yet, homemade decorations add a personal touch that no store-bought bauble pack can replicate.
And when it comes to the real versus artificial tree debate, both options can be sustainable if carried out thoughtfully. If you choose a plastic tree, investing in a high-quality one that will last at least a decade can balance out its carbon footprint. For real trees, you can always look for FSC-certified options and dispose of them responsibly. Even better, why not consider renting a tree? Tree rental services are becoming increasingly popular, allowing you to enjoy a living tree during the holidays and return it afterward to be replanted.
Few things compare to the joy of giving gifts, but it can feel even better when those gifts are kind to the planet. Focusing on thoughtful, meaningful presents doesn’t make you a Scrooge—studies show that people value quality over quantity when it comes to their stockings.
Why not explore charity shops for pre-loved treasures that are budget-friendly, unique, and support a good cause? These shops are brimming with classic finds like novels, vintage jewellery, and homeware. For a creative twist, you could thrift a beautiful vase and pair it with a handpicked bouquet of flowers for a personal and thoughtful gift.
You can also inspire sustainable habits with your presents. BRITA’s water filter bottle is a perfect way to help friends and family reduce single-use plastic and embrace reusable alternatives. Similarly, a BRITA water filter jug provides purified, ice-cold water straight from the tap, replacing waste with convenience.
For many of us, Christmas dinner is the highlight of the day. With a little planning, it can be just as enjoyable without excess waste.
Start by planning your meals carefully to avoid overbuying. And if you do have extra food, don’t let it go to waste! Leftover roasted vegetables can easily become a base for a hearty soup, and turkey often tastes even better the next day in a delicious sandwich.
When it comes to beverages, consider how much plastic waste your choices can make. Pop some sliced fruits in your BRITA filter jug for delicious, flavoured water that reduces the need for plastic bottles. Not only is it a better option for the environment, but it also saves precious storage space in your fridge, as well as the hassle of carrying heavy bottles home from the shop.
This Christmas, let’s celebrate with a focus on the future. Every thoughtful choice—whether big or small—contributes to a world where nature flourishes and resources are used responsibly. Together, we can create a holiday season that’s not only merry and bright, but also mindful and kind to the planet.
