Do you know how much of our holiday waste stream could be reduced if we used eco-friendly gift wrapping?
Well, in the U.S., annual trash from gift-wrap and shopping bags totals 4 million tons. (Source: Use Less Stuff)
Let’s just think about this logically. There have to be other ways in which we can reduce these 4 million tons of wrapping and packaging. Well, that’s why EnviroPerks is suggesting the following forms of alternative gift wrapping for all of your holiday needs.
Fabric
The number one choice for alternative gift wrapping is fabric. It’s the perfect reusable item. Try wrapping some gifts in a kitchen towel, fabric swatch or even a part of the gift, like a scarf, sweater or t-shirt. In Japan, the art of wrapping gifts in fabric is called, Furodhiki. So let’s all master the art of saving the planet by wrapping gifts in fabric.
Newspapers & maps
Did we even have to tell you about this one?
This age old trick is crafty and of course, inexpensive. You already have access to it, and the cartoon section is practically decorated already!
Wallpaper samples
You might have some of these lying around from your last living room renovation, so why not use them for the holidays? You can simply wrap a gift like it’s wrapping paper, it can’t get any easier than this!
Jars & cans
If you have a gift small enough, why not give it in a jar or can? You can go crazy on the paint or simply seal the jar with a nice fabric swatch to add color to your gift. Even if you don’t have time, a simple ribbon will do the trick for a bit of flair on your jar wrapped gift.
The natural way
What could be better than natural fibers? Try wrapping a gift in dried banana leaves, or weaving a basket with the leaves from a palm tree. You can even get super special and tie some fresh or dried flowers to the top in place of the traditional bow. Nothing beats natural, and this is the best and most environmentally friendly way to wrap all of your gifts this holiday season.
Save paper, save time, and make gift giving just a bit more eco-friendly by using these alternative means of gift wrapping this holiday season.