Christmas is hardly a time associated with energy efficiency, but with a few simple changes, it can be. Here are our top festive tips to help you have a greener Christmas this year and ideas to carry forward into 2023.
Most wrapping paper isn’t recyclable (it may be laminated with plastic or have metal or foil). If you want to use wrapping paper, look for paper from recycled materials. You can also save up old paper, cards and decorations and have fun crafting them into next year’s gift tags.
It’s likely the oven will be on a lot over the festive period, so try to time your cooking so that it’s not on longer than it has to be. Open your oven door when finished to release the residual heat into your home. Using lids on pans can make them up to 90% more efficient and reduces condensation which can cause damp.
This year, think about the gifts you are giving. Can you buy a sustainable alternative? Can you buy recyclable wrapping? Is it something the person really wants?
Think about your Christmas dinner and New year dinner. Will you get through an XXL turkey, or would a medium size one fill you all up? Do you need sprouts if nobody actually likes them? Can you buy local produce or veg without plastic packaging?
In 2023, we will be working to help Beeston Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, empowering residents to make sustainable choices and lower their energy bills. If you’d like to be involved, contact ourfuturebeeston@gmail.com
This post was written by James Latrham of Our Future Beeston
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