Overspending, overeating, and overindulging – it's the reality for many at Christmas and in the pursuit of being overjoyed, it's easy to overlook our environmental impact.
From unwanted gifts and uneaten food, to miles of wrapping and bins full of packaging and throwaways, household waste increases by about 30 per cent during the festive season.
But there's no need to overdo it, says Eurobodalla Council's sustainability education officer Gillian Kearney.
"By purchasing experiences in our region rather than 'things' you're supporting a local business, reducing waste in landfill and celebrating our area," she said.
"From trips to Montague Island (Barunguba) and seaplane flights to Zoo passes, movie tickets and dinner vouchers, there's kayaks and e-bike hire, a river cruise, kitesurfing, fishing charters, cultural experiences, skydiving, surfing lessons, oyster tours, and more – in Eurobodalla we're so spoiled for choice.
"You might even encourage family and friends from afar to come and experience our beautiful area for themselves."
If you must buy "things", line up local, not online.
"Buying local directly supports your community – and if it's locally or sustainably-made, even better," she said.
"If you need inspiration come along to Art on the Path at Broulee on Sunday 19 December. There you'll find a whole host of local artists and makers showcasing their products – many of which have been upcycled from discarded objects."
Broulee's Art on the Path will be held 8am-12pm on Sunday 19 December on the shared pathway on Coronation Drive, opposite the Post Office.
More tips to reduce your environmental footprint this Christmas include:
- Use a live, potted Christmas tree or plant, which can be kept outdoors year-round.
- Consider using decorations made from natural materials.
- Send an e-card as an easy and paper-free alternative to traditional cards.
- Make your own gifts, a home-grown potted plant or mosaiced house number, perhaps.
- Swap bought-wrapping with fabric offcuts or tea towels, reused wrapping paper or gift bags, the kids' drawings, or make your own paper.
- Buy food with minimal packaging, locally-grown products or grow your own.
