A More Circular Christmas: Affordable, Sustainable and Shared

The TOY Project in Islington helps reduce waste, and enables people to access beautiful secondhand toys at affordable prices.

Christmas is a time when many families gather, share food, exchange gifts and enjoy the festive spirit. But it is also a time when many others face a harsh winter, struggling to afford heating, food and basic necessities. According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, millions of households in the UK are going hungry, missing meals and falling into debt just to get by.

At the same time, the festive season puts added pressure on the environment. From single-use decorations to uneaten meals and overconsumption, it can be hard to avoid the expectation to spend more and waste more. But across the UK, communities are showing that there are other ways to celebrate.

By rethinking how we share food, gifts and resources, people are embracing a more circular approach to Christmas. These local projects help reduce waste, make celebrations more inclusive and show that festive joy does not have to come at a high cost.

Giving surplus a second life

Surplus to Supper, based at Sunbury Cricket Club, works across much of North Surrey, West and South West London, collecting surplus food from retailers and distributing it to community organisations such as schools, foodbanks and charities. Additionally, the project creates ready-to-eat meals from surplus food, handing out around 3000 a month to those in need.

R:evolve Recycle in South Lanarkshire, Scotland, is a charity helping people access good quality clothing and gifts with little to no money, by operating a points based swap-shop model. Additionally the project runs a clothing bank, which helps people who are referred from foodbanks.

The Reuse Shop, operated by The Bristol Waste Company (part of Bristol City Council) saves hundred of tonnes of furniture, electricals, homeware and other goods from landfill each year and sells them in its shops across Bristol. Every year they collect and resell Christmas items including artificial trees, lights and decorations, giving local people the opportunity to get festive in a cheaper, greener way.

In Islington, The TOY Project saves beautiful toys from landfill, selling them at affordable prices. The shop has recently launched a concession in Selfridges, selling vintage high-end toys as part of the department store’s Project Earth initiative. 

Sharing food and generosity

Across the UK, communities can come together to enjoy delicious food via Hubbub’s Community Fridges. In over 500 locations across all four nations, Community Fridges are a fantastic way to ensure good quality food is not wasted, and can be enjoyed by anyone who needs it. 

In Cardiff, Splo-Down Community Food Group operates a veg-box scheme with a “pay it forward” model. This means those who can afford to donate, do so, and allow those who are struggling to access fresh food. The veg boxes are sourced locally and much of the produce is home-grown.

How you can take part

If you are looking for ways to celebrate more affordably or reduce your impact this Christmas, consider visiting a local reuse shop, food project or community fridge. Many areas also run repair cafés, toy libraries and swap events that are open year-round.

Whether it is saving a meal from the bin, passing on a pre-loved gift or donating what you can, these simple actions add up. A circular Christmas is not about doing without; it is about making better use of what we already have and making sure the season is joyful for more people.

Let’s make this Christmas about community, kindness and keeping things in motion.

FAQs

How can I give more at Christmas without spending a lot?

Giving more does not have to mean buying more. You can give your time by volunteering with local food projects or reuse schemes, donate quality items you no longer need, or contribute to pay it forward schemes that help others enjoy the season. Many people also give by sharing meals, offering lifts, or helping neighbours with small tasks. Giving generously can be about thoughtfulness and time, not just money.

What are the best ways to reduce waste over the festive period?

Start by reusing what you already have. Decorations, wrapping and gift bags can all be saved from year to year. Choose gifts that are second hand, locally made or needed, rather than novelty items that may be thrown away. Plan meals to reduce food waste and store leftovers properly. Support projects that redistribute surplus food or goods. Even small changes can help make your celebration less wasteful.

Where can I find affordable or free Christmas resources in my area?

Many councils, charities and community groups run events or offer resources over the festive season, including community meals, swap shops, reuse markets and food banks. Community fridges are open to all and can help households access good food that would otherwise go to waste. Look online or ask at your local library, community centre or place of worship for local listings.

How can I help people who are struggling this Christmas?

There are many ways to offer support. You could donate to organisations working on food poverty, provide toys or clothing to local charities, or join a volunteering effort in your neighbourhood. Some groups allow you to sponsor a meal or contribute to a gift for a family in need. Sharing what you have, whether time, money or items, can bring comfort and dignity to others.

What is a circular approach to Christmas and why does it matter?

A circular approach is about keeping resources in use for as long as possible, reducing waste and creating shared value. During Christmas, this might mean giving pre loved gifts, cooking with rescued food, or decorating with natural or reusable materials. It matters because it helps cut down on the environmental and social costs of the season and makes space for more meaningful celebrations.