The holiday season in South East Queensland is a joyous time, filled with social activities, glorious weather, and a naturally stunning backdrop.

With so many celebrations, however, comes the potential for increased waste. We’ve put our heads together to come up with a variety of ways you can also make sustainable choices this festive season.

Celebrate sustainably

There are plenty of ways to reduce waste, lower your carbon footprint, and minimise your environmental impact this holiday season, including:

• Decorate responsibly by choosing recycled or recyclable wrapping paper, or even make your own. You might like to up-cycle old decorations rather than buying new ones or make your own eco-friendly ones.
• Avoid unnecessary plastic and make your own Christmas crackers.
• Avoid balloons as they can end up in waterways and harm wildlife.
• Cut down on single use items. Use reusable items as much as possible and be mindful of disposable products that end up in landfill.
• Recycle right by becoming the recycling champion in your family or friendship group to encourage more sustainable disposal of goods. Read up on more recycling tips here.

Avoid waste

• Don’t toss used batteries in your kerbside bin. Dispose of them at collection points. See where you can recycle here.
• Minimise gift waste where possible. Where you can’t, ensure waste goes into the correct recycling bins.
• Reduce food waste by planning out your meals to reduce leftovers. Where possible compost your food scraps. Read up on composting tips here.
• Be energy efficient.
• Go for energy-efficient light bulbs by using LED lighting in decorations to reduce your electricity use or better yet – go solar.
• It gets hot in Queensland but there are other ways to cool down. Don’t waste water by leaving the hose running and you can help avoid overusing the air con by opening windows, closing curtains and letting natural airflow in.

Looking after our slice of paradise

• Leave no trace. If you have a gathering or event in the great outdoors, be sure to clean up all waste. If there isn’t a suitable place to dispose of rubbish onsite, take it home with you.
• Avoid feeding wildlife.
• Dispose of waste responsibly, ensuring it doesn’t end up in waterways or harm the environment.
• Don’t forget a gift for the most important family member of them all – Mother Nature. These holidays, consider giving the gift of thanks by supporting an environmental initiative or making a donation to a cause you care about.
• If you want to think about ways to travel less, map out an adventure exploring the national parks or nature reserves in your own backyard. It’s a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and get to know your local ecosystems.
• Take time out for nature. Nature is also a great stress reliever.