Sustainable Holiday Gift Wrapping
by Kris Francefort
*As published in Natural Awakenings Magazine, November 2023
Create Your Healthy Holiday Home (4-part series)
Eco-Topic #4 = Gift Wrapping
Chemicals in gift-wrapping materials: Conventional gift wrap often contains a variety of harmful chemicals and dyes, including toxic inks, non-biodegradable materials, and synthetic dyes.
Personal exposure: Hazardous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can release into indoor air and absorption through direct contact with materials increases chemical exposure.
Ecological affect: When these chemicals end up in landfills, they can leach into the soil and pollute water.
DIY, easy, and cost-effective options
- Upcycle and unleash your creativity! Re-use and embellish these common household items for unique gift wraps:
- Newspapers, magazines, and brown paper bags
- Fabric scraps, old scarves, tea towels or cloth napkins
- Children’s artwork
- Glass jars and containers
- Reusable shopping bags
- Old calendars
- Homemade gift wrap
- Combine upcycled materials and natural materials like leaves, twigs, or pinecones.
- Make gift tags from cardboard or last year’s greeting cards.
- Use fabric ribbons instead of plastic ones for a quick, elegant touch.
‘Tis the season to add extra sparkle, ambience, and flavors to your home in preparation for holiday festivities!
Swap pervasive harmful products with eco-friendly alternatives to promote the health and well-being of family and friends during this season of celebration.
There are two main ways to replace hazardous products and minimize dangerous chemicals in your home:
- Purchase eco-friendly alternatives from sustainable-conscious businesses.
- Upcycle and DIY: Add heart to the holidays with homemade offerings while saving time and money by making your own home products.
Stay tuned for more Common-Sense Crunchy ideas to help you create an eco-friendly holiday home. The Common-Sense Crunchy approach balances practicality, holistic wellness, and sustainability.
Click here for these Healthy Holiday Home Eco-Topics:
Full article on pages 16-17 in Natural Awakenings online magazine – click here
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