Tops tips to waste less this festive season

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Did you know that over a quarter of Aussies will get a present at Christmas that they don't want?

That's around $1 billion dollars of gifts that will most likely end up in landfill. A lot of us like buying gifts for others, but it's been found that more than half of Australians would prefer people didn't buy them gifts (the least appreciated gifts are novelty items, candles, pyjamas, underwear and socks).

While gift cards can seem like a good option, maybe think again. There is around $1.5 billion left on unused gift cards annually (up to around $200 per person).

Food is often a big focus this time of year, but can be easily end up in excess, with Australians estimated to waste over 30% more food during the Christmas period. 

Here are 5 top tips for a thrifty, waste-wise festive season

  • Shop local: support local businesses and markets - check out some local ideas here
  • Reduce food waste: plan your menu and stick to your shopping list, consider gifting a nice takeaway container with leftover to guests, utilise leftovers with creative recipes or consider shopping at Feed Me Surf Coast where you can help save food destined for landfill.
  • DIY decorations: before reaching for the tinsel, look at using flowers, leaves or gumnuts to create decorations. Avoid plastic Christmas trees where possible and try for a potted tree that can be kept alive and reused over many years. 
  • Ask people what they want: Don't be afraid to ask if a gift would be appreciated or not. Or offer your own DIY vouchers to do something that might cost very little, but mean a lot, for example, wash a car, help with a day in the garden or baby sit or pet sit. 
  • Explain your bins to guests: If you have help in the kitchen, explain your bins and show any visitors how to separate recycling, glass and food scraps. Keeping food scraps out of landfill is one of the most effective ways to help reduce waste to landfill and fight climate change (as organics in landfill create a hefty amount of emissions). 

Be a conscious shopper

Most people also don't think about how the gifts they buy will eventually be disposed of, which can lead to more waste down the track.

When shopping ask yourself:

  • What material is this made of?
  • Where did it come from or was it made locally?
  • Is this gift actually desirable?
  • Does it contain a battery? Is there a risk a child might swallow this?
  • Could I buy a higher quality longer lasting item?

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