It is increasingly important to foster environmental awareness, not only on an individual level but also within our businesses, following the principles of the circular economy.
In this article, we will explore what this concept is and how companies can promote sustainability during the Christmas season from all angles.
What is circular economy?
The circular economy is defined as a system aimed at significantly reducing waste and pollution in the production of goods and services generated by a company, which in turn translates into consumption in society.
To achieve this, the theory of the circular economy is based on the “7 Rs,” a methodology for the conservation and reuse of materials. This is carried out through these seven principles:
- Redesign
- Reduce
- Reuse
- Repair
- Renew
- Recover
- Recycle
Through these actions, material waste can be minimized and their lifespan extended, resulting in a less harmful impact on the environment.
How to positively impact the holiday season with the Circular Economy?
December, the Christmas season, is characterized by joy and festivity, but also by the use and consumption of materials and resources that are often discarded by January, creating a negative impact on the environment.
Therefore, today we bring you six initiatives that you can implement this Christmas from your business, which you can also communicate to your customers to make it sustainable in the circular economy society.
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Sustainable Christmas tree
Typically, Christmas trees are made of plastic, one of the least sustainable materials. Therefore, we recommend buying a natural tree that you can replant or compost afterward.
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Reuse Christmas decoration
If you have decorations in good condition, reuse them this Christmas to avoid unnecessary purchases.
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Reduce energy consumption
December is always the month with the highest energy consumption due to holiday lights. Thus, it is necessary to be more careful with the lights when not at the office or home, use LED or low-consumption lights, unplug electrical devices once fully charged, and turn off the heating when no one is around.
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Buy local and seasonal food
The production of imported food has a higher ecological impact than that of locally produced, overproduced foods.
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Avoid food waste
Festivities often include business and family gatherings where food takes center stage. Therefore, planning for the number of attendees is crucial to avoid excess food. If surplus food is inevitable, have a contingency plan to ensure it is consumed by others rather than wasted.
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Give experiences, not objects
Give unique moments like concerts, trips, or other types of experiences, which are much better than giving an object whose production requires energy and raw materials, some of which are not sustainable. If you are unsure what to give and are considering a physical gift, try to ensure it is as sustainable as possible.
Follow these practical tips in your business and encourage your employees and customers to apply them as well. This way, the positive impact will improve in December and help to increasingly embed environmental awareness and the circular economy in society.
How to implement the Circular Economy and Sustainability in my business?
Beyond practical tips, which can be applied not only during the Christmas season but also in every business process, there are multiple factors at the business level that can be executed to achieve a sustainable and environmentally friendly vision.
At Pax#, we aim to support tourism businesses in becoming more sustainable through key planning and execution systems. Learn more about us and let’s create a positive impact on the planet together.
