Less waste at Christmas in Vienna: taking a stand against wastefulness

Ah, Christmas.

A time of joy, family, love and – more rubbish. It doesn't have to be that way. Here's how easy it is:  

1. Use solar lights for winter 

Transform your home into a magical winter wonderland – without using electricity. Solar-powered Christmas lights for winter are perfect for boosting that festive feel without huge energy bills. What's more, they don't produce greenhouse gas emissions. 

2. Send e-cards

Traditional greeting cards are... lovely, romantic and stylish. However, this blog post is all about producing less waste, which is why we promote modern e-cards. After all, your greeting cards almost certainly won't end up in a keepsake box, but in the bin.   

3. Sustainable wrapping paper

Admittedly, unwrapping presents is great fun. And beautiful, colourful packages are a treat for the eyes. But wrapping paper and cellophane are terrible for the environment. Fortunately, there are eco-friendly alternatives, for example from organic shops. Even better for the environment is wrapping gifts in old newspapers or fabric. 

If that doesn't look pretty enough for you, put a little glue on the parcel and sprinkle on some (eco-friendly, compostable) glitter.

4. Regift presents you don't like

One person's trash is another person's treasure. Regifting presents you don't like is much better than simply throwing them away. Plus, it saves money – money you can use to take that person out for dinner instead. 

5. Gift alternative: donate to charity in someone else's name

Everyone loves pandas, koalas and other cute animals that really need our help. Instead of just buying presents (which will probably end up in the deepest, darkest corner of a cupboard anyway), donate to a charity or adopt an animal through WWF. 

6. Give experiences and time

Give your loved ones experiences instead of things.

This could be a lovely brunch, a trip to the cinema or a weekend at the beach. You don't have to wrap it, and you'll create lasting memories.

7. Make room for remainders - with a self storage unit in Vienna

One of the best parts of the festive season is the delicious feasts. But what to do with the leftovers? They are far too good to throw away. That's why we recommend using up food in the freezer well ahead of the holidays. Plan your meals accordingly to ensure you have enough room for Christmas leftovers and your family doesn't have to waste food. 

8. The deal with Christmas trees

At the risk of being unpopular: 30 million felled pine trees a year, set up in living rooms for just 10 days, is not sustainable. It's better to switch to a more eco-friendly alternative, such as: 

1. Decorating the houseplant in your living room

2. Making an artificial tree – not from plastic, but from recycled materials, iron or wood. You can decorate it year after year 

3. Planting a potted pine tree that spends the summer on your balcony and serves as a sustainable Christmas tree in winter. A great option, isn't it?