The countdown to Christmas has begun, and at &Smyth, we’re as excited as anyone to share the festive spirit. As we help some fantastic Irish brands to promote their Christmas gift offerings, we are also conscious we need to be mindful of the environmental impact of the season. It may be a wonderful time of year, but it can also be a costly one not just for our pockets but for the planet. With KPMG* reporting that three quarters of Irish adults expect Christmas shopping to be significantly more expensive this year, the good news is there are smarter ways to keep costs down and reduce waste without turning into the Grinch! 

According to Repak, Ireland generates on average 100,000 tonnes of waste every Christmas, much of it from wrapping paper, decorations, and packaging. Glitter-covered paper, non-recyclable wrapping, and disposable decorations often end up in landfills or as pollution in waterways. And let’s not forget the carbon emissions from producing and transporting these items. Ireland remains in the unenviable position of being the EU’s top producer of plastic packaging waste per capita* And this is clearly evident over Christmas as our green bins overflow from the copious amount of packaging on gifts. 

With that in mind, we’ve put together some practical ways to enjoy Christmas while cutting down on waste, supporting local businesses, and giving more thoughtful gifts. 

1. Rethink Gift Wrapping 

The beauty of a gift is in the thought, not the glitter. Opt for sustainable wrapping ideas that look chic and reduce waste: 

• Plain Kraft Paper: Dress it up with natural twine, festive stamps, or seasonal accents like dried orange slices and holly. And as media-loving folk, we do also love to use newspapers and magazines as another creative alternative to traditional wrapping paper.  
• Reusable Gift Boxes: Use recycled cardboard gift boxes that can double as storage for crafts or keepsakes. 
• Furoshiki Wrapping: Inspired by a Japanese tradition, wrap gifts in scarves, tea towels, or leftover fabric for a creative two-in-one gift. 

2. Buy Irish, Shop Local 

Ireland is home to a wealth of artisans, small businesses, and local producers who craft with care and sustainability in mind. Supporting these businesses not only reduces the carbon footprint of imported goods but also strengthens our local economy. 

• Locally Produced Food & Drink: Treat your loved ones to some of the best food and drink Ireland has to offer. These delicious gifts are a joy to receive, and your money is going directly to support local producers. Shout out to Ahascragh Distillery, Ireland’s first zero-energy emission distillery for an ideal present for the eco-conscious sipper.    
• Craft Fairs & Pop-Ups: Explore Christmas markets for handmade treasures, from candles and ceramics to Irish-made skincare and jewellery. 

3. Think Beyond “Stuff” 

Struggling to find the perfect gift? Instead of material presents, consider experiences or digital alternatives: 

• Experience Gifts: From theatre tickets to cookery classes or vouchers for their favourite restaurant, experiences create lasting memories without adding clutter. 
• Gardening Enthusiasts: Gift tickets to events like Bord Bia Bloom or memberships to places like Airfield Estate, Dublin’s urban farm and gardens. 
• Digital Subscriptions: Treat them to something they’ll use year-round, such as a newspaper subscription to The Irish Times or Irish Examiner, an ethically sourced coffee subscription such as Moyee Coffee or a donation to a meaningful charity in their name. 

4. Give back  

As nice as it is to receive, it feels even better to give back. Consider what you can do this Christmas whether that is a donation to a homeless or children’s charity or attending a charity event you can take part in as a family such as the Goal mile on Christmas morning. Get children involved in the joy of giving back by taking part in the Christmas shoe box appeal or singing Christmas carols for residents of their local nursing home. An initiative that is close to our hearts is the Embrace FARM Christmas jumper which aims to remember those who have lost their lives in farm accidents and support their family members and friends.  

Why It Matters 

By choosing reusable wrapping, supporting local businesses and charities, and gifting thoughtfully, we can reduce waste and lower the environmental impact of Christmas. These small changes don’t just benefit the planet – they help us focus on what really matters: spending time with loved ones. 

Let’s all aim for a greener Christmas this year. Nollaig Shona from everyone at &Smyth! 

*Source: The Source of Recycling Waste: Lifting the Lid on Ireland’s Packaging Problems | VOICE Ireland