Sparkle and Sustainability: Rethinking Holiday Decorations

The holiday season often leads to a surge in waste and pollution. Decorations, in particular, contribute significantly to this issue. Single-use items like balloons, confetti, and glittery trinkets are major culprits. These items are designed to be small and easily dispersed, making them difficult to collect and recycle. For instance, popping 100 balloons can release up to 33 million microplastics. These tiny particles can be harmful to both human health and the environment, especially when ingested by children. Experts suggest that making more sustainable choices can be straightforward. Sara Silva, a researcher focusing on microplastics, advises looking for decorations made from paper or natural materials. She also recommends checking the ingredients of decorations to avoid those containing plastics. Silva has found creative ways to decorate, such as making garlands from old paper and avoiding items like fake snow, which is made from microplastics. Trisha Vaidyanathan, another expert in plastic pollution, emphasizes the importance of questioning the longevity and necessity of decorations. She suggests asking oneself if a plastic decoration is worth the environmental impact it will have over hundreds of years. Vaidyanathan has adopted practices like making snowflakes from old paper and avoiding glittery tinsel, which is often made from harmful PVC plastics. Both experts acknowledge the challenges of convincing others to make more sustainable choices. Silva finds her parents more traditional but has taken the lead in decorating her own home. Vaidyanathan admits to becoming more persistent with family and friends but stresses the importance of focusing on reducing plastic waste. When it comes to specific decorations to avoid, both experts highlight the dangers of glitter and fake snow. Glitter is often coated with metals, increasing its toxicity, while fake snow is literally made from microplastics. Vaidyanathan also points out that many gift wraps, although appearing to be paper, are not recyclable due to a thin plastic coating, especially if they contain glitter or foil elements. Last July, Sara and other scientists wrote a letter urging the inclusion of plastic decorations in the U. N. ’s plastic treaty. Silva believes that regulations are crucial for cutting down on non-essential plastic sources. Vaidyanathan emphasizes that while individual efforts are important, the responsibility ultimately lies with companies producing cheap plastics. For those looking to make their holiday decorating more environmentally conscious, Silva advises taking small steps and being creative. Vaidyanathan suggests exploring alternatives to mass-produced plastic items, such as dried orange garlands, pinecones, beeswax candles, and natural garlands. She reminds us that it wasn’t long ago when holidays were celebrated without the ubiquity of plastic, and these alternatives can bring just as much joy.