A Second-hand Christmas?

As the Christmas period enters full swing, different organisations are encouraging us to be mindful with our money.

Hubbub, an environmental charity that’s all about inspiring action that’s good for us and the environment, is encouraging us to turn to pre-loved presents rather than buying new items.

Over-consumption and excessive waste are significant threats to the environment, especially with the popularity of plastic. Reducing and recycling are excellent ways to counteract the impact of the Christmas season on the environment.

Second-hand presents and a sustainable Christmas will also help your pockets! There’s no doubt that buying new presents and decorations year-on-year can be costly, and second-hand presents can be one way to limit the costs.

A more sustainable Christmas does not have to be drastically different to the Christmas you are used to, any changes are helpful! Many are choosing to swap out some of the presents they would buy brand-new for second-hand versions which is an easy and cheaper swap. According to Vinted, an online second-hand marketplace, second-hand gift sales are expected to comprise over 10% of all Christmas gift sales in the UK this year.

Second-hand Christmas isn’t only about the presents, however. There are so many small substitutions that can help us reduce our waste.

• Believe it or not, glitzy and shiny wrapping paper cannot be recycled. Instead, try using newspaper (like you old issues of First News) or recyclable brown paper instead of buying new!
• Hand-making decorations from recycled materials or natural offerings instead of buying new plastic decorations. Try some paper chains, popcorn garlands, or holly wreaths instead of tinsel!
• Instead of buying a sparkly new outfit for the Christmas party, give your favourite outfits another chance to shine! And if you want more options, look at second-hand or rental sites instead of buying new.