ANTI-HAUL: Cooking too much food
Alternative: Get an accurate head count of how many people you'll be hosting! If you do want some extras left over, cook for only 1-2 more. Have leftovers that you're scared you won't finish by yourself? Give your guests the heads up to bring some containers to take food home in!
ANTI-HAUL: Microplastic Glitter and confetti
Alternative: Mainstream glitter is made from plastic which we all know does not degrade easily in the environment. While I'd prefer glitter not be a product that's ever used, they do make biodegradable glitter should you need it. These glitters are made from plant cellulose. Check it out here ! Looking for something even more sustainable? Make/buy leaf confetti! It's super easy to make! All you have to do is grab some leaves that have fallen off the tree and cut out tiny confetti shapes.
ANTI-HAUL: Single use aluminum pans and foil
Alternative: Casserole dishes! Visit your local thrift store and find one there or order second hand from E-bay or Amazon. If you absolutely need to purchase a new dish, buy one that is built to last and that you can keep for a lifetime from buymeonce.com.
ANTI-HAUL: Christmas Cards
Alternative: Let's be honest; many people don't keep the cards they get. If you're lucky someone may have a dedicated box for all of the cards they get but most people just throw them out. Send an e-card from greenvelope! You still get to design a beautiful card with a heartfelt message for your friends and loved ones, but without the waste!
ANTI-HAUL: Corporate Advent Calendars
Alternative: Many advent calendars come with products that we don't like or want. Instead of wasting your money and purchasing something that will go to waste, exchange gifts with your partner or friend. You're guaranteed to give and receive something that is truly wanted.
ANTI-HAUL: Gag Gifts
Alternative: Gag gifts are literally almost always wasteful. Sure it's fun at first but the item NEVER gets used 99.9% of the time. Either don't participate in these types of gift exchanges or break the rules and give something useful!
ANTI-HAUL: Spray snow
Alternative: Since snow isn't naturally occurring in many locations, people often resort to purchasing fake snow that comes in powdered form or in an aerosol can. The issue is that this stuff is made with tons of chemicals that build up in the environment. Not to mention the health hazards these chemicals have if ingested or if you get some on your skin! Sure you can make fake snow with ice, but think of the amount of water that's being wasted. Unfortunately there isn't an alternative at the moment, but that shouldn't stop you from enjoying the holiday activities wherever you're located!