09/12/2023
108 million rolls of wrapping paper are used each Christmas in the UK alone. 😱
That’s a lot of paper and not very sustainable. So here’s some ideas for greener gift wrapping…
🎁 Use What You Have
This is both the greenest and best value option!
This might be off-cuts saved from last year, packaging that came with online orders, newspaper and magazines, even the kids’ drawings (with permission!)
Fabric scraps, scarves and pillowcases.
Gift bags or boxes saved from previous years or found on local share groups.
Decorate cardboard boxes or make your own pillow boxes from cereal packets (search ‘pillow box tutorial’ on YouTube)
🎁 Invest in Reusables
Make, buy or even rent reusable fabric wraps!
Fabric gift bags or drawstring bags can also be used again and again.
For UK rental look up Wrag Wrap
🎁 Tips for Buying Wrapping Paper
If buying new paper there can be a difference between ‘recycled’ and ‘recyclable’ rolls of paper.
‘Recycled’ means the wrapping paper is made from recycled fibres. Generally this will have a lower carbon footprint than paper made from virgin fibres.
‘Recyclable’ means the wrapping paper can be recycled with your paper recycling after use - it shouldn’t be shiny or have any glitter. However this wrapping paper may or may not be made from recycled paper. Just because it’s recyclable doesn’t make it the greenest option, just greener.
If you’re giving presents this festive season, what wrapping will you be using?
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