With another major holiday fast approaching on the 17th April, there are many ways to celebrate in a sustainable and eco-conscious manner. Shiny eggs, chocolate galore and cute bunnies can often mask the negative impacts this holiday poses on our planet. Every Easter, an average of 8,000 tonnes of waste in packaging and cards alone is produced. There are measures we can take to reduce our carbon footprint and lessen the constant stress our species are inflicting on the environment.
Steer Clear from Individually Wrapped Confectionaries:
A study shows that the weight ratio of chocolate to packaging is more or less equal. Brands are doing their bit to become more sustainable, opting for recyclable and compostable alternatives, pioneered by Nestle shifting to a 100% recyclable packaging across its whole range in 2012. However, the sad reality is that although the foil around the eggs are technically recyclable, it often ends up in landfill sites. We as consumers and partakers in this holiday must also do our bit. Instead of overbuying individually wrapped eggs, particularly mini eggs for hunts, we can be more deliberate with our purchase decisions or even try making our own chocolate!
Have Fun and Be Green
The fun Easter activities do not need to be compromised, just re-envisioned. Instead of using plastic eggs, or wasting real eggs too for that matter, try using wooden eggs or even better, eco eggs. These are made from 100% recycled materials and are also reusable and recyclable.
Easter egg decorating doesn't have to stop and start there, why not make your own dye too? As opposed to buying paints and dyes packaged in plastic and riddled with toxic fumes, natural dyes can be made easily at home using bright coloured fruit and veg infused water
As opposed to buying cheap plastic baskets every Spring, try making your own basket out of felt or woven paper. Even if you’re not very creative, look around the house and repurpose some plant pots, cups or tupperware. This can extend further to the Easter basket grass. Cast aside the plastic or paper grass and go out into the garden for some grass, leaves and twigs. Being eco friendly doesn’t have to come at a higher cost!
Give up Plastic for Lent
In the lead up to Easter and in good Lent tradition, why not give up something that will have a positive secondary effect on the environment. You could minimise your food waste, give up single use plastic, become a second-hand buyer or go vegan.