For the first time in history, the Black Friday retail footfall was actually down in 2021. While talk of new variants and social distancing may have deterred some, others were likely drawn in by the wealth of digital promotions.
This begs the question: are UK consumers going to digitise all their Christmas habits? Sustainability is often the last thing on any shopper’s mind throughout the Christmas period. But it warrants attention – particularly when it comes to Christmas cards.
Christmas card sustainability: the facts
At first glance, Christmas cards seem sustainable. Plain cards are made with wood pulp and water-based solvents, both of which are entirely recyclable.
Add a little Christmas cheer to the mix and you’ll run into problems, as the following items are not yet recyclable:
- Ribbons
- Foil
- Glitter
- Plastics.
Each person in the UK will send and receive 17 cards on average – and the Royal Mail estimates that approximately 150 million cards are sent each year.
But while we may do our best to recycle, one-third of all Christmas cards goes into landfill.
The greenhouse effect of Christmas cards
In a study led by the University of Exeter, it was revealed that a single Christmas card emits 140g of CO2 every time it is produced.
When we break down how much energy is required to produce one single festive message, it’s easy to see why.
Production
It all adds up. One tree makes 3,000 Christmas cards, serving just 176 people each year.
Printing
Though this is the least impactful part of the production process, some greeting cards manufacturers may still use petroleum-based inks over plant-based alternatives.
Deliveries
Royal Mail covers more than 600 million miles per year, with 14 million letters sent yearly, and 500 million parcels sent throughout the Christmas period alone.
Added to the consumption of packaging, gift wrapping and Christmas food, we each have a responsibility to reduce our carbon footprint – both as businesses and consumers.
The good news
The good news is that the tide is turning. While Christmas cards might be a heartfelt gesture, they too are on the decline. Even before the ‘digital shift’ caused by the pandemic, we began to see this pattern emerge.
In 2019, Dan Cooper, Head Buyer at John Lewis, said that the brand had noticed a decline in Christmas card sales. Among the reasons why, he cited postage costs, lack of time, falling out of fashion, and of course – consumer decisions to reduce waste.
So, how can businesses and consumers reduce their Christmas card waste?
Alternatives to sending cards this Christmas
Spreading holiday cheer doesn’t have to harm the environment. Why not try these alternatives and do your bit for the planet?
Personalised video messages
Video calls have been a driving force throughout the pandemic, so make them festive with a personalised message. Services such as Bomb Bomb allow you to share the love with your relatives, colleagues and clients, wherever they are.
Charity eCards
eCards have long been a staple of 21st century internet use, but Don’t Send Me a Card takes it one step further.
When you send a virtual Christmas card with them, you can also choose a charity to sponsor – ideal for both businesses and those with a cause close to their heart.
Social media channels
Maximum impact and minimum effort – why not send your good wishes to clients via social media this year? Christmas jumper posts, newsletters or advent calendar themes are ideal for those short on time with larger client bases.
Looking to reduce your landfill waste this Christmas?
Speak to hubba for your free business waste audit today.
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