As the festive season approaches, why not embrace a more eco-friendly Christmas this year? We’ve got a sack load of small changes you can make to help the environment.

Christmas jumper swap

Instead of buying a new Christmas jumper this year, why not save money and the planet by taking part in a jolly Christmas jumper swap at Acton Market Reduce and Recycle Hub? You can visit the market on 7 December, between 10am and 3pm.

Swapping your pre-loved Christmas jumper for another one, instead of buying new clothes, helps to reduce the impact of ‘fast fashion’ on the environment.

Donations are needed beforehand to run a successful swap event. You can drop your Christmas and winter themed tops, in a clean and good condition, at one of the points below until Friday 6 December:

• ActOne Cinema and Cafe, The Old Library, 119-121 High St, Acton, W3 6NA
• West Ealing Library, Melbourne Avenue, West Ealing, W13 9BT
• Northfields Community Library, 255A Northfield Ave, W5 4UA

There are also pop-up collection points around the borough at Ealing Repair Cafe events. More information about the swap is available on the Acton Market website. Winter coats will also be accepted on the day.

• Recycle your Christmas tree

You can get the new year off to a green start by getting rid of your Christmas tree in a quick, easy and environmentally friendly way by recycling it. Keep an eye out on the Around Ealing website for more information soon.

• Reusable and eco-friendly decorations

Make your own unique decorations using natural materials like pinecones, dried oranges, and recycled paper. You could also use decorations from previous years or upcycle old materials into new ones.

• Energy-efficient lighting

Opt for LED lights, which use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Set your lights on a timer to reduce energy consumption.

If you are decorating outdoors, consider using solar-powered lights to save energy.

• Shopping with a conscience

Support local businesses to reduce your carbon footprint. And, why not visit charity shops to find second-hand treasures or vintage gifts? You could also consider buying experiences instead of objects, such as theatre tickets, adopting an animal or donating to someone’s favourite charity.

Instead of buying tools or gadgets for one-time use, you could borrow them from the Library of Things at Ealing Broadway Shopping Centre.

• Wrap up well

Use reusable or recyclable wrapping materials for your gifts, like fabric, old newspapers, or recycled wrapping paper. Avoid plastic ribbons and foil or glittery paper, which can’t be recycled.

• Reduce food waste

To prevent food waste, plan your meals carefully. Use up leftovers creatively and freeze them to eat another time. Eat Like a Londoner has some great tips. Compost any leftover food scraps using your food waste recycling service.

‘Creative ways to enjoy Christmas’

Councillor Paul Driscoll, the council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “By making a few simple changes, such as cutting back on waste and supporting local businesses, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. Together, we can make this a truly green Christmas.”

Enid Barron, an Act for Ealing steering group member, is a champion of reducing waste and is the curator of the ‘Cut the Crap’ exhibition, currently touring the borough. Enid said: “Whether it’s buying recyclable wrapping paper, choosing sustainable gifts or making sure any leftovers from the Christmas dinner are used to create other dishes, there are plenty of ways to reduce your impact on the environment while celebrating the festive period.”