The festive season brings joy and celebration, but also an approximately 30% increase in UK waste, with businesses contributing significantly to this surge. The amount of food waste produced over Christmas also increases, in particular with poultry, vegetables and potatoes (WRAP). Westminster businesses have a unique opportunity to lead by example, creating memorable celebrations while protecting our environment. Westminster City Council's Commercial Waste Services is here to support your journey toward a more sustainable festive season.
Reducing food waste during the festive season
The hospitality and events sector can dramatically reduce food waste through strategic planning. Confirm accurate guest counts to prevent over-catering, and serve appropriate portion sizes using smaller plates to naturally reduce plate waste. Design menus using seasonal, local ingredients to minimise packaging waste while supporting the local economy.
Surplus food doesn't need to become waste. Partner with local organisations to ensure excess food reaches those in need by connecting with food banks and charities through schemes like FareShare or The Felix Project. Apps like Too Good To Go or Olio provide platforms to sell or donate surplus food, creating meaningful community impact.
Westminster City Council's Commercial Waste Services offers dedicated food waste collection that diverts organic waste from landfill. Instead it is turned into peat-free fertiliser, to enrich farmland growing new food, and into bio-gas to produce low carbon energy. Sign up for food waste bins and support to ensure staff are properly trained on segregation. Track your food waste to identify patterns and reduce over-ordering, creating both environmental and financial benefits.
Reusable decorations: Invest in longevity
Single-use decorations may seem cost-effective initially, but reusable alternatives offer better value and environmental benefits over time. Invest in high-quality decorations made from sustainable materials like wood, metal, or recycled materials that will last for years rather than ending up in your general waste after a single season. LED lighting is particularly worthwhile, reducing electricity consumption by up to 80% while lasting significantly longer than traditional bulbs.
Natural elements offer another sustainable option. Incorporating potted plants, pinecones, and branches creates beautiful displays that can be composted or replanted after the season. Consider renting decorations for one-off events or partnering with other Westminster businesses to share decoration resources, building stronger local networks while reducing waste.
Sustainable gift wrapping for retail businesses
Retail businesses in Westminster can significantly reduce waste by offering sustainable gift wrapping options. Introduce reusable fabric gift bags or furoshiki (Japanese wrapping cloths) that customers can use repeatedly. These alternatives often become cherished items themselves, extending the gift-giving experience beyond the initial unwrapping.
Use wrapping paper made from 100% recycled materials with soy-based or vegetable inks. Brown kraft paper, newspaper, or pages from old books offer a vintage aesthetic that many customers find appealing. Replace plastic ribbons with natural twine, raffia, or fabric strips. Use dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or sprigs of rosemary as decorative, compostable accents, that can then be collected as part of your food waste service. Plantable seed paper gift tags offer recipients something they can grow into flowers or herbs. Encourage sustainable choices by offering discounts to customers who bring their own gift bags or charging a small premium for traditional wrapping to offset environmental costs.
Recycling Christmas trees and decorations
Westminster City Council provides comprehensive Christmas tree recycling services through designated drop-off locations throughout Westminster from early January and kerbside collection on scheduled dates. Businesses with multiple trees can arrange collection through Westminster Commercial Waste Services. Recycled trees are chipped and composted, creating nutrient-rich mulch for parks and gardens across Westminster, providing a circular solution for the local community and environment.
For more information about Westminster City Council's Commercial Waste Services, contact us at 020 7641 7969 or visit westminster.gov.uk/commercial-waste
