Sustainable Gifting: Rethinking Wrapping Paper

 


Sustainable Gifting: Rethinking Wrapping Paper

Because glitter and foil don’t belong in recycling bins (or forests).

🎉 The Wrapping Problem

Each Christmas, birthday, and “just because” moment adds up to millions of tonnes of wrapping paper.
Except — much of it isn’t paper at all.

❌ Foil-lined
❌ Plastic-coated
❌ Glitter-covered
❌ Tape-sealed

These make most wrapping non-recyclable, even if it looks like it should be.

If it scrunches and stays scrunched, it’s probably paper. If it springs back, it’s probably landfill.

🟢 Smarter, Greener Ways to Wrap a Gift

1. Furoshiki (Fabric Wrapping)

  • Reusable, beautiful, and culturally respectful

  • Use scarves, tea towels, bandanas, or thrifted fabric

  • Bonus: It’s part of the gift!

2. Brown Kraft Paper + Twine or Ribbon

  • 100% recyclable

  • Add a sprig of rosemary, lavender, or old buttons for flair

  • Use potato stamps for homemade patterns

  • The ribbon can be reused or part of the gift.

3. Old Maps, Sheet Music or Newspapers

  • Unique and artistic

  • Perfect for vintage or themed gifts

  • Kids’ drawings also make great personalised wrap

4. Gift Bags & Boxes (That Live On)

  • Durable and re-giftable

  • Keep a stash from gifts you've received

5. Glass Jars or Tins

  • Great for food gifts, candles, or small items

  • No wrapping paper needed at all

6. Digital Gifts

  • Experiences, subscriptions, and donations don’t need wrapping — or postage.

💡 Tape Tips

  • Use paper tape or washi tape — it’s recyclable

  • Avoid plastic or glittery tape (yep, even the sparkly Santa one)

🎯 Final Thought

A gift that’s kind to the planet is part of the gift.

Rethink how you wrap, and you’ll be giving the Earth a present too — even if Aunt Mabel misses the glitter.

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