Life at UCB through the eyes of our student bloggers

Sustainable Christmas ideas

Sustainable Christmas ideas

Hey everyone, can’t believe it’s December already! Another year has flown by and it’s that time of the year when we are getting ready for the festive season.

So, while all of you are preparing the Christmas decorations, I thought I would give you some ideas on how to make your Christmas sustainable this year.

Being a student, very often we don’t have the budget to buy a Christmas tree, however this doesn’t mean your Christmas will go without one. This year, I cut out a Christmas tree out of a cardboard box. It’s super easy and simple and it’s so much fun as well! It also leaves you with space to be creative, as you can write and draw whatever it is that you like on your Christmas tree. So, I used Blu Tack to hang some pictures, wrote various lines from Christmas songs and similar things.

You should definitely try it out this Christmas as it not only saves you money but it also saves a tree from being cut down! If you’re not a creative person and arts and crafts are not something you would do, you can always turn your houseplant into a Christmas tree!!


If you already have some Christmas decorations, reuse them or you can always buy second-hand!

When sending Christmas cards, opt for e-cards where again you can use various gifs, music and even memes to bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces! If you still prefer to send a tangible card, buy plantable Christmas cards. There are lots of options on Etsy, so have a look.

I don’t know about you, but ugly Christmas sweaters are always a fun thing, so this year do not go shopping for a new one – simply reuse your old Christmas sweater!


When it comes to gifts, one way of being sustainable is shopping locally and supporting local businesses, which is so important, especially in this crazy environment of the pandemic. Buy handmade gifts as they often have put more care and love into their products, and you’re guaranteed to find a gift they (your recipient) doesn’t already own! Choose a gift that lasts too, don’t just panic-buy, so when it comes to selecting gifts, why not opt for something such as a potted indoor plant!


And last but not least, make sure you reduce your food waste this Christmas. Do not just bin what’s left, but transform the leftovers and create new meals, which helps save you money and cut waste. If you have too many leftovers, see what you can freeze or why not donate to that homeless person you always pass by on your way to work/uni?

That’s all, folks. I wish you a happy Christmas and will see you in the new year!!

Ema