GREEN IS THE NEW GLITTER: GIFT WRAP SUSTAINABLY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Wondering how to gift sustainably this holiday season (and save money, too)? Not only is wrapping paper expensive, it’s often not recyclable. As someone who loves the glittery, shiny, (non-recyclable) wrapping paper options at the store, finding a dazzling, environmentally friendly alternative is a must.

It’s estimated that over 2 million pounds of wrapping paper ends up in landfills each year in the U.S. alone. 2 million pounds. That’s a whopping statistic. While the holidays can be a bright and joyful time of the year, the environment is taking a hit.

The beautiful thing about thinking sustainably is that it requires creativity. Here’s a few ways to be more environmentally friendly this holiday season, and in turn, create more unique and personalized gift wrap!

Step 1. Reuse, reuse, reuse!

The best way to be more sustainable is to use items you already have instead of buying new things. Not sure of a good use for those brown paper takeout bags? Cut them into flat sections for a natural-looking wrapping paper. Do you have excess natural-based twine or yarn laying around? These are a perfect replacement for ribbons and bows. Have old scarves you haven’t worn in a few years? You guessed it–wrap, wrap, wrap!

Step 2. Be creative!

Here comes the fun part. Now that you’ve got your recycled wrapping materials, it’s time to add a festive spark. Luckily for you, we’ve got the great outdoors to explore! During November and December, there are plenty of leaves, pinecones, and other pretty pieces of foliage on the ground just waiting to be picked up. These can be easily attached to your natural-based ribbon choice and make for a fun holiday accent.

[A note from the veterinarian who wrote this article: If you use plants, berries, or other parts of nature in your gift wrapping, be sure to keep these out of reach of children and pets. Some may be toxic or harmful.]

Step 3. Not sure about gifts? Check out our EFM merch!

If you’ve come this far and are excited to become your best sustainable self this holiday season but don’t have any fun gift ideas in mind, we’ve got you covered there, too! Be sure to check out our online store where you’ll find sustainably-made and custom gifts for everyone on your list.