The festive season is a time for joy, celebration, and coming together with family and friends. However, traditional Christmas and New Year's celebrations, including fireworks and decorations, often leave a significant environmental footprint. Here, we explore ways to celebrate sustainably, including tips for enjoying fireworks responsibly, choosing eco-friendly Christmas options, and correctly disposing of decorations.
Fireworks: The environmental impact and alternatives
Fireworks light up the skies and bring joy to many, but they have environmental and social impacts. They release fine particles and chemicals into the air, contribute to noise pollution, and can disturb local wildlife and pets.
Environmental Impact: Fireworks release fine particles, metals, and chemicals into the air, contributing to air pollution. They also leave behind waste that can harm wildlife.
Noise Pollution: Fireworks can distress pets, livestock, and wildlife, as well as vulnerable people.
How to celebrate sustainably:
Attend Public Displays: Opt for council-organised fireworks displays, which are more efficient and reduce individual contributions to pollution. For instance, Newcastle, Durham, and Sunderland councils often host spectacular New Year’s Eve displays. Check local council websites for 2025 updates.
Silent Fireworks: These reduce noise pollution while still providing stunning visuals, making them a better choice for areas with sensitive wildlife or pets.
Consider Laser Shows: An innovative and environmentally friendly alternative, laser light displays offer a captivating spectacle without the fallout from fireworks.
Eco-Friendly Christmas trees and decorations
Christmas is one of the most joyful times of the year, but it can also generate significant waste. Here are tips for a more sustainable festive season:
Choosing a Christmas tree:
Real Trees: Look for locally sourced or FSC-certified trees. Many councils, such as those in Newcastle and Gateshead, offer recycling schemes for real trees in January.
Artificial Trees: If you already own one, reuse it for as many years as possible to offset its environmental production impact. Remember that the environmental impact decreases the more years you use them.
Sustainable decorations:
Choose natural or reusable materials like wood, fabric, or recycled paper.
Avoid decorations with glitter or non-biodegradable materials, which can contribute to microplastic pollution.
Get creative with homemade decorations, such as dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, or upcycled items. Opt for natural materials like pinecones, dried fruit, or recycled paper.
Responsible disposal of Christmas and fireworks waste
Post-Christmas waste can pile up quickly, so proper waste disposal is crucial for reducing environmental impact. Here’s how to manage post-festive waste responsibly:
Christmas Trees: Most councils offer tree recycling services. For example, Newcastle and Gateshead councils collect trees in January for mulching and composting.
Lights and Electronics: Recycle broken fairy lights and electronics at dedicated collection points.
Gift Wrap: Rese or choose recyclable wrapping paper. Avoid foil or glitter finishes.
Fireworks: Leave used fireworks to cool overnight, then dispose of them in household waste. Never recycle fireworks due to the chemicals they contain.
Festive Events in the Northeast of England
Celebrate the season sustainably by attending organised events across the Northeast. Here are some highlights for 2025:
Newcastle Christmas Market: From 16th November to 22nd December, explore local crafts, festive food, and live entertainment.
Beamish Museum Christmas Evenings: Experience a Victorian Christmas from 5th to 20th December, complete with traditional decorations and activities.
Durham’s Fireworks Display: Ring in the New Year with a breathtaking display in the city centre.
Newcastle New Year’s Eve Quayside Fireworks: A spectacular riverside show to welcome 2026, details to be announced closer to the date.
By adopting sustainable practices, you can celebrate the festive season while reducing your environmental impact. Let’s make 2025 a year of joyful, mindful, and responsible celebrations.
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