Millions of Christmas presents end up gathering dust rather than spreading joy. According to a survey by Finder.com (2025), three in five people reported receiving an unwanted gift last Christmas.
Collectively, these unwanted items represent an astonishing £1.27 billion in wasted spending. WasteDirect (2025) reports that the UK produces 30 percent more waste in December than at any other time of year, with over three million tonnes generated across the festive season. So how can we celebrate more sustainably and thoughtfully without sacrificing the fun and festivities?
Choose gifts that require little or no wrapping, like experiences such as a home-cooked meal, or dinner out, day trips, event tickets, or memberships can mean your gifts last longer, don’t clutter up the house and reduce wrapping paper waste
Opt for pre-loved items instead of brand-new purchases; the Buy Nothing Warminster Facebook group, Freecycle, or Thrift can be great online places to find more sustainable, money-saving gifts.
Give old Christmas cards a second life by repurposing them into new creations. Cut out illustrations or messages from cards you’ve received and arrange them into unique collaged designs; also perfect for gift tags.
The World Wildlife Fund (2025) reports that in the UK, around 42 million plates of food are wasted each Christmas. To keep festive food waste to a minimum, freeze anything suitable you can’t eat right away. When hosting or visiting friends and family, why not bring along a few reusable containers so leftovers can be shared and enjoyed later, rather than ending up in the bin.
You don’t have to be a Scrooge – but ‘less is more’ can still make for a special time with friends and family.
By Rebecca Krzyzosiak and Jennie Gilling, Sustainable Warminster members
