The ultimate guide to ethical and green Christmas

It's hard to believe, but as soon as you enter the nearest shopping center, you are reminded that Christmas is just around the corner!

From the loudspeakers blaring Christmas carols to the tinsel wrapped around the mannequins, the spirit of Advent can be felt everywhere.

Of course, strolling through a busy shopping mall is not the ideal way to spend this festive season, not to mention all the unnecessary knick-knacks you're likely to bring back from such an outing.

Why not make this Christmas more sustainable by buying eco-friendly and natural gifts and following some useful tips to do your part to protect our precious planet?

Read on to find out more!

Rely on nature!

Don't worry, we're not talking about 'up to the trees, you monkeys - the forest is being swept away', but about buying natural products that are not only a healthier alternative to chemically contaminated products, but also do good for our planet.

Our plant-based skincare range will address all your skin concerns. All products are formulated with non-toxic ingredients that benefit both your health and the environment.

And when it's freezing cold outside, you don't even have to leave your couch because you can do all your Christmas shopping with the click of a mouse!

CHOOSE REUSABLE PACKAGING

Every year millions of tons of waste end up in landfills and most of this waste is generated around Christmas time.

That's only logical with all that wrapping paper and plastic packaging. But did you know that plastic doesn't decompose? It just sits in landfills and pollutes the earth.

This year we especially encourage you to consider reusable, if not recycled, wrapping paper. Etsy is a great resource and there are hundreds of beautiful designs to choose from!

SAVE ENERGY WITH THESE CHRISTMAS TREE TIPS

Many people consider a real, live tree to be the most sustainable option. But did you know that producing an artificial tree requires about the same amount of resources as growing a live one? So it all comes down to a few simple tips.

If you buy a real tree this year, consider getting it from a farm that supports forests. Also, if you buy a small tree, consider keeping it as a houseplant when January rolls around.

If you prefer an artificial tree, buy one that will last for years. Maybe you already have an artificial tree, in which case you may need lights or more decorations. Instead of buying lots of plastic decorations, why not get some friends and family together and make your own homemade Christmas decorations for this year's tree? Also, when buying lights, look for energy-efficient LED strings.