It’s no surprise that holiday season consumption leads to significant waste. This environmental damage can be furthered by the excessive amount of carbon emissions that are generated.
According to a report by Esquire Magazine, Americans throw away 25% more trash during the holiday season than they do the rest of the year. In the UK, 6 million trees are typically discarded each year, as many people do not reuse or recycle their artificial trees. As an investor who is interested in making the world a more sustainable place, there are many ways that individuals can participate in the holiday season.
Due to the increasing public awareness about the environment and the political pressure that companies are under, many companies are now taking the necessary steps to make their operations more sustainable. One of these is by holding a proxy voting process. This allows investors to participate in the company’s efforts to improve its sustainability. Another way that individuals can make a difference is by shopping for products that are made with sustainable materials.
In the U.S., a popular toy manufacturer is currently investing up to $400 million over the next three years to reduce the amount of petroleum that it uses in the production and packaging of its products. This initiative is part of the company’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact. According to the toy industry, children are demanding that companies take the necessary steps to make their operations more sustainable. By buying products made from sustainable materials, consumers can help make the world a more sustainable place.
Artificial trees are not only harmful to the environment, but they can also contribute to carbon dioxide emissions. If you are still not comfortable with using a real tree, consider purchasing one that you can later plant somewhere.
Keep in mind that some of your favorite brands are taking the necessary steps to make their products more sustainable. As they continue to make progress in reducing their environmental impact, consider giving them a portion of your holiday budget.
For the holiday season, consider incorporating sustainability into your gift-giving and decoration practices. Doing so can help decrease the number of greenhouse gases that are produced and discharged.