Here at Minerva, we are passionate about sustainability and are all committed to enjoying a more sustainable and climate-friendly festive season. We wanted to take this opportunity to share our top tips and advice on our personal approaches towards being more sustainable in our choices this year.
“We all love a Christmas tree and over the years I have tried all the options from pot grown, rooted and freshly cut. Mindful of the waste that can be generated by real trees not being recycled and landfill created by artificial trees, this year one viable option is for a wooden Christmas tree. The tree is made from sustainably sourced coppiced wood, cut as part of traditional woodland management, using what otherwise would be a waste product.”
If you are looking for potential examples, try ‘The Natural Wood Company’.
“Using natural or homemade decorations are a sustainable alternative to plastic Christmas baubles and artificial wreaths. Meeting with family to forage and create your own garlands or festive wreaths is a great way to enjoy the lead up to Christmas and something I enjoy every year with my Mum and sister.”
If you are looking for guidance and inspiration why not join a local wreath making course or search online for ‘how to’ videos?
“There are lots of amazing producers and farmers all over the UK and by sourcing local ingredients for your festive meal, not only will you help to minimise food miles but also support small businesses within your local community. Organisations such as Hampshire Fare (www.hampshirefare.co.uk) and Produce and Provide champion local produce and aim to connect farmers, growers and producers with the public. Alongside my work at Minerva, I have a part-time role at Oaktrack – a local smallholding – where I will be purchasing my Christmas pudding and making a hamper of produce from the farm to give to my family.”
“As Christmas approaches, I always enjoy making traditional Hungarian Christmas desserts including Bejgli (a pastry with nut or poppy seeds filling) and Linzer cookies using ingredients sent by my parents, from their garden. Home baked biscuits and cakes also make a wonderful gift.
On Christmas Eve traditionally we have fish with potato salad. I only make a small portion so there is no waste and in anticipation of the big turkey to follow on Christmas day! Leftovers for us includes bubble and squeak on Boxing Day, and turkey pie the day after.”
WRAP’s website Love Food Hate Waste has lots of recipe ideas to use up your Christmas leftovers whether it is Rogan Josh curry, turkey pasties or turkey and cranberry spring rolls.
“Rather than giving a gift, why not opt for an experience, course or donation to charity? This year I have decided to give my close family experiences that create memories. Not only does this save on potential Christmas waste, but it is a gift that keeps on giving all year round. My parents are receiving a local wine tasting experience, where they will enjoy a selection of local wines and indulge in an array of sustainably sourced cheeses. Although I have been gifting experiences for several years now, I never get tired of seeing the pleasure on my families’ faces!”
Look out for more useful advice and ideas on our social media platforms this Advent. The Minerva Team wishes you all a very happy, sustainable and enjoyable festive season! 🎄🎄🎄
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