As a proud sustainable Irish company, we know Christmas is a time when it’s more important than ever to be mindful of how we shop and celebrate. With consumption at its peak during the festive season, small changes can make a big difference. Here are our top tips on how you can enjoy a guilt-free, sustainable Christmas. 

1. Shop Local 

One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint this Christmas is to support Irish businesses. Shopping locally helps cut down on delivery miles, avoids reliance on global supply chains, and keeps your money in the Irish economy. Plus, it’s a great way to discover unique gifts! 

Check out our blog: Irish Christmas Gifts for inspiration. 

2. Embrace Second-Hand Shopping 

Second-hand shopping is often overlooked, but it’s a fantastic way to give back to charity while reducing waste. From quirky accessories to designer handbags, you can find unique treasures that make thoughtful gifts, all while keeping items out of a landfill. 

3. Choose Recyclable Wrapping 

Did you know most conventional wrapping paper isn’t recyclable? Foil, glitter, ribbons, and sticky tape all make recycling impossible. Instead, opt for simple brown paper, decorate with stamps or ink, and tie with a string. For an extra festive touch, add dried flowers, greenery, or slices of dried orange. Find more wrapping inspiration here. 

4. Switch to LED Lights 

LED Christmas lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional bulbs, last longer, and look just as beautiful. Turn off lights when not in use and consider a timer for safety and energy savings. 

5. Eat Seasonally 

Many Christmas favourites (potatoes, sprouts, carrots, leeks, and parsnips) are in season during winter. Choosing seasonal, organic produce supports Ireland’s nature-friendly farmers who use fewer pesticides and promote healthy soils and biodiversity. Check out Bord Bia’s “Best in Season” calendar for updates on the best fruit and veg to pick. 

6. Love Your Freezer 

It’s an Irish mammy classic to overestimate the size of the Christmas dinner! Don’t let food go to waste, freeze it! Most foods can be frozen, including cream and cheese. Tip: Break your meals into portion sizes before freezing for easier thawing.  

6. Turning Down the Heating Dial

Thanks to WillowWarm carbon-neutral briquettes, you can heat your home more sustainably using Irish fuel. Instead of wasting energy and money heating your home up this winter, turn down the dial and enjoy a cosy, crackling fire; perfect for creating a festive atmosphere.

Small Changes, Big Impact 

At WillowWarm, we’re committed to reducing Ireland’s carbon footprint. That’s why we produce carbon-neutral briquettes, helping you heat your home more sustainably. 

If you haven’t stocked up for winter, now’s the perfect time. Find your local stockist here.