A More Meaningful and Sustainable Way to Celebrate the Holidays in Thunder Bay written for The Walleye
By Ashley Priem, Co Executive Director, EcoSuperior
As the festive season approaches and Thunder Bay glows under strings of holiday lights, many of uslook forward to time with family, cozy evenings, and acts of giving. But the holidays can also bring a rush of overconsumption, from piles of wrapping paper to overflowing shopping carts, which often leaves us feeling drained, both emotionally and financially. This year, more people are choosing to celebrate Christmas in a way that's not only more meaningful but also more sustainable: keeping budgets small, shopping local or second hand, and giving time to causes that matter.
A simpler holiday season can be a more joyful one. Setting a smaller budget helps shift focus from material gifts to meaningful connections. Homemade items, baked goods, or a heartfelt card carry personal value and reduce the environmental footprint of mass-produced gifts. Every time we choose quality over quantity, or experiences over things, we use fewer resources and create less waste.
Reducing excess also means being mindful about holiday waste. Wrapping gifts in reusable fabric, newspaper, or paper bags instead of plastic-coated wrap is one small step that can have a big impact. Keeping the holiday budget and the waste small not only lightens the load on our wallets, but also on the planet.
Shopping locally is one of the easiest and most rewarding ways to make the holidays greener. Buying from Thunder Bay artisans, craftspeople, and small businesses cuts down on long-distance shipping emissions while keeping money in the community. Local products often use fewer resources and less packaging, and you'll be supporting your neighbours in the process.
Thrift stores and second-hand shops add another layer of sustainability. By choosing gently used items, you help extend the life of products and keep them out of the landfill. These places are treasure troves for unique, affordable gifts and holiday décor. Reusing what already exists is one of the simplest ways to lower your environmental footprint, and it often leads to more creative, one-of-a-kind finds.
Volunteering your time is one of the most sustainable ways to give because it doesn't require new materials or products, just compassion and energy. Many Thunder Bay organizations rely on volunteers, especially during the colder months. Places like Shelter House Thunder Bay, The Dew Drop Inn, Our Kids Count, and the Regional Food Distribution Association are always grateful for extra hands to prepare meals, sort donations, or lend a smile to someone in need.
Acts of kindness, whether large or small, ripple outward. Helping a neighbour shovel snow, donating winter clothing, or offering to drive someone to an appointment all build a stronger, more connected community, and that's the true heart of a sustainable holiday season.
By spending less, buying thoughtfully, and giving generously of your time, you're not only nurturing community and connection, you're also helping the environment. A mindful holiday season reduces waste, lowers carbon emissions, and keeps resources circulating within Thunder Bay. This season let's celebrate in a way that's good for our hearts, our community, and our planet. The most meaningful gifts aren't wrapped under the tree, they're found in the moments of care, creativity, and connection that make the holidays shine.
