Wrapping gifts in the run-up to Christmas is fun and creates a Christmas spirit. The only disadvantage: packaging waste is generated – both when packing and unpacking. Many gift packaging materials cannot be reused, which is why around 20 percent more packaging waste is generated in Germany over Christmas than usual.
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Pack gifts sustainably
If you want to wrap gifts sustainably, you should either use reusable materials or materials that you already have at home. Avoid plastic wrap, plastic coatings and glitter as these are non-recyclable. Instead, there are many beautiful and festive alternatives that you can use to wrap your gifts – without any packaging waste!
Use recycled wrapping paper
If you don’t have enough time and need to buy wrapping paper, then reach for recycled wrapping paper. This consists of 100% waste paper and can be bought without hesitation. You can recognize recycled wrapping paper by the “Blue Angel” seal.
Reuse purchased wrapping paper
You can keep and reuse purchased wrapping paper instead of throwing it away. You just have to make sure that you are careful when unpacking and that you store the wrapping paper in such a way that it does not get damaged. For example, you can fix the paper with kitchen roll or keep it on a clothes rail.
Make your own wrapping paper
Of course, in addition to brown natural paper, there are also many alternatives to making your own wrapping paper. We have various beautiful and sustainable ideas for what you can use for wrapping instead of purchased wrapping paper:
- Use old newspaper to wrap . You can also paint the paper, stick it on or enhance it with a nice ribbon. You can also use old book pages, sheet music, maps, magazines or city maps. You can also cut out individual letters or pictures and stick them on brown natural wrapping paper – let your creativity run free.
- Another option for gift wrapping is tin cans . Simply give your gift in a tin or an old cookie jar. The tins can be embellished and reused after opening.
- Textiles are also suitable for wrapping gifts. For example, these can be fabrics that you still have at home and that you can use for packing. Small bags made from recycled fabric are another option. The recipient can continue to use them afterwards.
- Homemade gifts such as winter jam, liqueur or baking mix are delicious and always go down well as a gift in a mason jar . Another advantage is that the mason jars can be reused.
- Baking paper and wrapping paper are also suitable as gift wrap substitutes. Just like with newspaper and the like, you can paint or stick them on and embellish them with gift ribbon and tags.
- Even toilet paper and kitchen rolls can be used for packaging. Simply tie the roll on both sides with jute twine – the candy gift is ready.
- You can also wrap a gift inside another gift to save on packaging material. For example, a hat in a pocket. Use ribbon and tags to make it look more festive.
Tips for wrapping gifts sustainably:
- Instead of plastic gift ribbons, use environmentally friendly alternatives made of jute or raffia.
- Use homemade glue instead of scotch tape. You can make this quickly and easily by mixing a tablespoon of wheat flour with water until it forms a sticky mass. The glue will keep in the fridge for a few days.
- Use natural materials such as fir branches and pine cones when decorating the gift. These are a real eye-catcher and sustainable.
- Use fabric bows instead of plastic bows.
- Cut gift tags out of old boxes or packaging.
- You can make silver gift tags from yoghurt lids.
