Christmas is a time of celebration, festive cheer and feasting, but it’s also the time of year when the most food and drink gets wasted. With large meals and extra treats, it’s easy for perfectly good food to go unused or get thrown away.
The good news? Small changes and mindful planning can make a big difference. By planning carefully, choosing sustainable options and making the most of leftovers, you can still enjoy the festive season to the fullest while reducing waste and protecting the planet. Here are some simple steps to help you celebrate Christmas sustainably this year:
From Local Farm to Festive Table
Choose local cafés, restaurants, and markets offering regional and seasonal produce. Seasonal foods taste better, are fresher, and reduce transport-related emissions. A festive tip: seasonal fruit and veg boxes make holiday prep easier and support local growers.
Cut the Carbon for Festive Flavour
Shorter supply chains = lower carbon emissions. Locally grown, in-season foods are riper, fresher and tastier than imported alternatives. Check food labels for country of origin and use-by dates: if it’s been flown in and won’t last long, it’s probably out of season.
Plant-Powered Christmas
Animal products accounts for 16% of global annual greenhouse gas emissions and 60% of food related emissions. Add more plant-based recipes to your Christmas menu or even designate a meat-free day during the festive break – it’s good for the planet and your health.
Seasonal, Sustainable Seafood
Swap heavily eaten fish like cod, salmon, or prawns for sustainable options such as mussels, sardines, or coley. For an sustainable festive starter, UK-grown mussels are eco-friendly and full of flavour.
“Sleigh” Your Festive Waste
Christmas is the season of abundance, but don’t let perfectly good food go to waste! Dig out those tins hiding at the back of the cupboard or the bread tucked in the freezer before you go shopping, ensuring you only buy what you really need. After the big day, get creative with leftovers! Social media is full of ideas and tasty recipes to use up any surplus food.
