10 Ways to Go Plastic-Free this Holiday Season
The holidays bring joy, laughter, and, unfortunately, a surge in waste—especially plastic. From shopping bags to gift wraps, decorations, and party supplies, our holiday traditions often leave a lasting environmental footprint. But it doesn’t have to be that way! This season, let’s make the holidays brighter for both our loved ones and the planet. Here are Bottleless Nation’s top ten practical tips for going plastic-free this holiday season. Whether you’re a business, a parent, or simply someone who wants to make a positive impact, these ideas will help you enjoy a more sustainable season.
1. Opt for Plastic-Free Gift Wrapping
Holiday gift wrap is often plastic-coated and non-recyclable, adding to landfill waste. Instead, try wrapping gifts with alternatives that can be reused or composted. Brown kraft paper is an affordable, versatile option that can be dressed up with simple twine or ribbon. Or, for a truly zero-waste approach, wrap gifts in fabric—known as furoshiki in Japan. Old scarves, handkerchiefs, or even fabric swatches can be beautiful and reusable, making the wrapping as cherished as the gift itself.
2. Bring Your Own Shopping Bags
Reusable shopping bags are often forgotten amid holiday chaos, yet they’re one of the easiest ways to cut back on plastic. Many stores still use plastic bags, especially during busy shopping days, so bring your own bags whenever you can. Keep a couple of compact, foldable bags in the trunk or backseat so you’re never caught without one. Some stores even offer incentives or discounts for using your own bags—a perk for both your wallet and the planet.
3. Gift Experiences Instead of Items
Holiday shopping can create unnecessary plastic waste, from packaging to tags and labels. Consider gifting experiences rather than physical products, such as a cooking class, concert tickets, or a weekend getaway. Experience gifts create lasting memories and often require little to no plastic packaging. This approach is also great for businesses that may want to reward employees or clients—think about gifting a membership, a special meal, or a day out that reflects your company’s culture.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Party Supplies
Disposable plastic plates, utensils, and cups are often used during holiday gatherings. Instead, use real plates, silverware, and glassware for a plastic-free party setup. If your guest list is extensive, consider renting dinnerware from a local rental service. Another option is to use biodegradable items made from bamboo, cornstarch, or recycled paper. Many compostable options look stylish and are better for the environment than their plastic counterparts, making cleanup eco-friendly, too!
5. Choose Plastic-Free Decorations
Decorations like plastic ornaments, tinsel, and garlands often end up in landfills. Instead, choose biodegradable or reusable decor to keep your holiday setup eco-friendly. For instance, natural elements like pinecones, wooden ornaments, and paper decorations can create a cozy, classic holiday look. Homemade decor can be a fun activity with family or friends, like stringing popcorn or cranberries into garlands that can later be composted. And if you enjoy candlelight, opt for soy or beeswax candles over paraffin, which is petroleum-based.
6. Say No to Plastic Packaging in Gifts
Online shopping during the holidays often results in packages filled with plastic wrap, bubble wrap, and polystyrene peanuts. Choose eco-conscious retailers who prioritize sustainable packaging or request minimal or plastic-free packaging at checkout. You can also support businesses that try to reduce their environmental footprint by using recycled or compostable materials for shipping. Every purchase can be a small but meaningful vote for businesses that share your commitment to the environment.
7. Get Creative with Stocking Stuffers
Stocking stuffers can often be single-use plastic items or trinkets that are quickly discarded. Instead, try filling stockings with practical, eco-friendly items like handmade soaps, stainless steel straws, or reusable cotton rounds. Experience-based gifts like movie tickets, gift certificates to local restaurants, or spa vouchers also make fantastic stocking stuffers that avoid unnecessary plastic packaging. Plus, supporting local businesses helps build a more sustainable community.
8. Give Reusable Gifts
Reusable items make thoughtful, long-lasting gifts that help cut down on single-use plastic. Some popular options include stainless steel water bottles, reusable coffee cups, beeswax wraps, and cloth shopping bags. Gifts like these can have a big impact by encouraging recipients to reduce their plastic use daily. They also make great corporate gifts or client appreciation tokens if you’re a business looking to promote a green message.
9. Recycle Right
Despite our best efforts to avoid plastic, we may still end up with some plastic waste. Make sure it’s recycled correctly to maximize its chance of being processed. Each community has unique recycling guidelines, so take time to learn what’s accepted in your area. Rinse plastic containers thoroughly, remove labels, and avoid “wish-cycling” (putting items in recycling, hoping they’ll be accepted). Recycling right helps streamline the process and reduces contamination, making recycling more efficient for everyone.
10. Dispose of Plastic Responsibly
For unavoidable plastic waste, consider options beyond the curbside bin. Many grocery stores and recycling centers accept plastic bags, bubble wrap, and other hard-to-recycle plastics. If you’re a business, look into recycling programs for commercial plastic waste. Companies like Terracycle and local recycling organizations can often process specialized materials that curbside recycling programs can’t. When we make an effort to dispose of plastic responsibly, we help extend the life of these materials and support a circular economy.
A Greener New Year Starts Here
The holidays are about giving, and there’s no better gift than a cleaner, greener planet. By making small, intentional choices, we can reduce our plastic waste and inspire others to follow our lead. Let’s use this holiday season as a stepping stone toward a more sustainable future by going plastic-free.
If sustainability is part of your 2025 corporate goals, join Bottleless Nation in our mission to make going green practical and accessible. Together, we can make a meaningful difference, one choice at a time!