“The vast majority of people are very eco-conscious during the year, and they want to continue that for the holiday season as best they can.”
So says Colm Crowley, owner of Cork-based Christmastree.ie, who is more than happy to accommodate this rising interest in sustainability. In addition to the option of buying, he now offers a unique alternative of renting festive plants. The primary advantage of this approach is that the trees remain alive. Another benefit of renting is that customers can get the same trees back each year.
“This is particularly special for families with young children, because as the child grows, the tree grows with them,” he explains.
In addition to Christmas trees, another cherished festive tradition is exchanging gifts. However, many people now prefer to give experiences and vouchers instead – perhaps a spa day or hotel stay.
RM Block
“Upcycled gifts are thoughtful, unique and greatly personal,” says Claire Downey, chief executive of The Rediscovery Centre, based in Ballymun, Dublin. She says such gifts show care and creativity, and that someone has turned time and effort into something far more meaningful than anything mass-produced.
“Create a regifting drawer that you can revisit later in the year for birthdays and celebrations, or bundle items for charity donations,” she says. “In Ireland, initiatives like the Toy Library’s post-Christmas swaps give new life to old toys. The key is to keep gifts moving, not discarded.”
Despite the chilly conditions, the festive season is often when we are most likely to leave the comfort of home and hit the social circuit. Downey insists there is no need for a new outfit at every event.
“We love a re-wear. For example, a simple black dress can be transformed with accessories like scarves, belts, lace collars, single earrings repurposed as brooches, or anything sparkly.”
Food for thought
Food, glorious food, was celebrated in the musical Oliver! – a familiar inclusion in the Christmas television schedule – and there are many ways to gorge on delicious meals while simultaneously being mindful of the environment. Conor Halpenny, head chef of Dundalk’s Square Restaurant, says planning ahead will minimise waste. Write lists and order thoughtfully, he suggests. Respect for ingredients is central; ensure every part has a purpose, so very little goes to the bin.
Of course, no matter how well we plan, leftovers are almost unavoidable. When storing your turkey and ham, a simple and eco-friendly tip is to use reusable plastic containers such as Tupperware instead of cling film and tinfoil.
So, while a white Christmas might be out of reach in Ireland, a green Christmas is more achievable than ever.
