Along with decorations, trees, and presents follow Christmas cards, which is another staple across many households at Christmastime
It’s the thought that counts, one simple yet wonderful way of showing people you care, meanwhile spreading your joy, is with a simple gesture that dates all the way back to 1843 in the UK.
Christmas cards have long been an item which humans shared thoughts and greetings with people from far away and close by, however a lot of the time, cards aren’t or can’t be recycled and go to waste. As a country, we send an enormous amount of Christmas cards, so much so that according to Business Leader “We send enough Christmas cards that if we placed them alongside each other, they’d cover the world’s circumference 500 times”.
So much of this goes to waste or in landfill, which can heavily impact our environment, so here are a few tips on how to choose the right Christmas cards to help everyone be more sustainable in their households.
The Digital Card
A physical object is nice, but for something that’s looked at once it may be worth considering all available options. In modern times there is an increase in popularity for digital cards. Card greetings and delivery websites are now offering digital cards that can be emailed or texted. Some offer digital cards from around 99 pence, these get sent directly to a selected email, and some can also be personalised. But if the costing does not work for you, take a spin on Photoshop, or similar editing platforms, build your own card to send through online channels.
The Planting Card
Another option circling around is planting cards. These are cards that are made with recycled paper and seeds implanted into the paper, so when you’re finished with the card, simply plant it in a pot or the ground, water it and let it grow. It’s a beautiful alternative to regular Christmas cards. And the seeds within are like an extra gift, you can choose seeds such as wildflowers or herbs. You can find these cards on many online websites, just type into a search engine and voila you will have lots of choice. But if you don’t have access online you might even find them in your local stores if you keep your eye out.
Buying a Card
Of course, these do not work for everyone, and going to your local card shop may be more convenient. But remember recycling is significant, did you know that one in four Christmas cards go unrecycled? It’s important to when choosing your cards to make sure they are recyclable and remind people you give your cards to recycle.
What should you look out for when it comes to shopping for Christmas cards? Finding Christmas cards that are recyclable should be easy, just make sure the cards have the recycling logo on with a note beside reading “recycle me”, it’s also important to look out for the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) logo, this means the cards were sourced sustainably or were made with recycled contents.
It’s best to avoid buying cards that are glittery or shiny or have bows and metallic finishes as the majority are not recyclable. Most importantly, avoid cards which have lights or music, these cards are battery powered and have electrical components in. These need to be properly disposed of, because if put in the wrong place, they can contaminate the entire bin collection, causing many problems. To find out how to properly dispose of your electronics and find your local Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) visit the recycle your electricals website.
Handmade Cards
If you are creative and savvy why not add that special touch by creating your own. Inspiration is all around us and with materials readily available from nature from twigs to leaves or reusing materials you may already have at home. This will not only help reduce your carbon footprint but can also save you money all the while adding that special personal touch.
A key element is to make sure you use biodegradable materials where possible. So, avoid using things like glitter and plastic based materials and choose non-toxic natural adhesives for your creations.
Donate to charity instead of posting cards
If you are in a position where you have a little budget but would rather not give a Christmas card, and you’d still like to give something special to spread some cheer or let someone know you are thinking of them, you could donate to a charity in the name of the person you’d like. It’s a kind alternative to a card, and it is not only a thoughtful gift to your friend, it is also a gift to someone who needs it.
And remember, Christmas is about the thought that goes into a gesture, not the cost. With the cost-of-living crisis whipping across households, even more so this year, be thoughtful and kind to yourself and those around you.
