7 ways to make your Christmas more sustainable (and still loads of fun!)

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Let’s face it—Christmas can be a bit of a waste-fest. From throwaway decorations to unwanted gifts, it’s easy to forget that less is more. Here are 7 easy, fun, and Shark-approved tips to keep the magic alive without leaving a big ol’ footprint.

1. Plantable Christmas Trees 🌱

How about a tree that lives beyond Christmas? Me and my sidekick Kinky (yes, my cat) got a little spruce this year (aka real jehličnan—that’s “conifer” in English, friends). We’re planting it in the backyard in 2025. If you don’t have a garden, borrow one from a mate or gift it to your local community.

2. Give Experiences, Not Things 🎟️

Instead of another pair of socks, how about dance lessons, an art workshop (I loved this one), or a yoga and tantra awakening course (this one is by my friend Niki)? Memories last a lifetime; stuff doesn’t. Bonus: less wrapping, less waste.

3. Wrap What You’ve Got 🎁

Ditch the shiny paper that’s not recyclable. I use “Who Gives a Crap” toilet paper wrapping—it’s colourful, reusable, and always a hit with friends. Old newspapers, fabric scraps, or even last year’s gift bags? Perfect.

4. DIY Gifts Are Cool (and Personal) 🧴🍯

Normalise giving homemade gifts. Pickles, jams, coffee scrubs—easy, thoughtful, and fun to make! My friends get personalised massage oils, infused coffee oil, deodorants, and lip balms. Handmade = heart-made (and zero plastic).

5. Hoard Your Packaging Like a Pro 🎀

Save ribbons, name tags, and fancy wrapping paper for next year. Your future self will thank you, and the planet will, too.

6. Share the Love: Donate Unwanted Gifts ♻️

Unwanted presents? Don’t let them collect dust. Give them to a friend, list them on Buy Nothing, or donate them directly to someone in need. Direct donations save charities resources and get gifts where they’re needed most.

7. Check What’s Actually Recyclable ♻️🗑️

Not everything can go into your yellow bin—Christmas confusion is real! Check what’s recyclable in your area at Recycle Right WA. A quick peek can save a whole bin’s worth of contamination.


Got a sustainable Christmas tip? Comment below and share your genius ideas—we can all inspire each other to do a little better this year.

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