Did you know that the Easter holiday generates more than 4,000 tonnes of waste annually? The bulk of this waste originates from single-use plastics like Easter baskets, artificial grass and plastic containers posing environmental threats often discarded after the celebrations.
This Easter lets focus on being mindful of our environmental impact while we celebrate the joy of Easter festivities with our friends and loved ones. Here’s some suggestions to help celebrate sustainably and ethically:
Get Crafty
Create stunning Easter baskets without harming the environment. Choose compostable materials such as cotton fabrics, shredded paper, cardboard, and wood instead, even try weaving your own basket with old materials. By making your own Easter basket, you’ll not only save money but also reduce the waste associated with store-bought options.
Recycle
Did you know that aluminum foil is 100% recyclable?
After indulging in delicious chocolate, collect all your foil wrappers, scrunch them into a ball (about the size of a golf ball), have a quick game of catch, then toss them into the recycling bin. Remember, recycling helps conserve resources and reduce waste!
Consider thrifting
This Easter, instead of purchasing brand new hats or plastic party hats, why not browse through second-hand stores for unique finds? Once you’ve found the perfect hat, adorn it with decorations made from compostable materials like dried flowers, paper, or biodegradable glitter. You can also incorporate reusable items such as ribbons and buttons to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
Shop small and support local makers
Choose to support local artisans and businesses by buying gifts from them. This not only helps boost the local economy but also lessens the environmental footprint linked with mass-produced goods. Opt for consumable gifts or handmade items that can be savored without adding to clutter.
Here is a list of Northern Rivers businesses:
- Scoops + Candy Lismore, for delicious treats
- Poppy & Fern, The Farm Byron Bay, for gorgeous flower arrangements
- Local Farmers markets
- Muzza’s Milk Bar Evans Head, for delicious treats
- Peppertree Kitchen Lismore, for beautiful gifts
- The Mullumbimby Chocolate Shop
- Sunday Sustainable Bakery Byron Bay, for delicious hot cross buns
- The Green Bank Nimbin, for alternative Easter gifts
Make a donation
Spread the Easter spirit by making donations to meaningful causes in someone’s name. Support organisations like Friends of a Koala that focus on initiatives like wildlife conservation and Koala protection. Another option is to contribute to local Easter food drives to help those in need.
Let’s make Easter celebrations more meaningful, memorable, and environmentally conscious.
