In the run-up to December 24th, the environmental protection organization Greenpeace advises, among other things, to avoid a Christmas tree for reasons of sustainability and instead replace it with a festively decorated house plant. “Huge monocultures of cultivated Christmas trees are weakening our forests in the fight against the climate crisis.” This would require the use of large amounts of harmful fertilizers and toxic pesticides.
Unnecessary burning of Christmas trees
The subsequent burning of Christmas trees then releases the stored CO2, according to a statement from Greenpeace Austria. Against this background, the organization suggested using sustainable wall decorations to create a good atmosphere alongside Christmas house plants.
Overall, the waste of resources increases, especially around the holidays, it was said. Greenpeace therefore also advised giving time instead of material things. In this context, reference was made to a survey by the market research institute “Yougov”, which showed that more than half of all 18 to 44 year olds were dissatisfied with conventional gifts.
“For many people, giving the gift of time is significantly more valuable than a quickly bought ‘embarrassment gift’ that ends up in a drawer or trash can,” it said. “It’s also better for the environment, because the production and use of consumer goods causes up to 40 percent of the climate-damaging greenhouse gas emissions from households.”
5,500 pieces of paper waste during the Christmas season
In addition, particular reference was made to the ecological footprint of paper production. “Producing a ton of new paper requires about as much energy as producing a ton of steel.” The Christmas season alone causes an additional 5,500 paper and cardboard waste. The more complex and heavier the wrapping paper, the more environmentally damaging it is – especially because coated paper can hardly be recycled and is therefore burned along with residual waste. On the other hand, wrapping gifts using reusable textiles and gift bags as well as newspaper is more environmentally friendly.
Avoid package returns
Greenpeace also appealed to avoid returning packages. “The return of a package alone causes as many CO2 emissions as the electricity consumption of an Austrian household for a whole day,” said the organization. Furthermore, cardboard waste and the unfortunately frequent destruction of returned goods would have a negative impact on the climate. Anyone who decides to give material gifts is well advised to browse through second-hand shops, buy “refurbished products” or look for sensible alternatives in local shops.
Last but not least, people were encouraged to plan trips to family, friends or on vacation correctly in order to avoid traffic jams. Traveling by public transport or car sharing also protects the environment.
