
Winter is the perfect time to slow down and find comfort in hobbies that are not only cozy but also good for the planet. By focusing on sustainable activities, you can reduce waste, get creative, and enjoy the season. Here are five eco-friendly winter hobbies to try this year:
1. Quilt with Thrifted Fabrics
Quilting is a wonderful way to repurpose old fabrics and reduce textile waste. Instead of buying new materials, find fabric at thrift stores or use items you no longer need. The process is slow and meditative, resulting in a uniquely eco-friendly creation that’s lovely for winter nights. In fact, the average American discards about 81 pounds of clothing every year, contributing to massive textile waste. By repurposing old fabrics, you’re giving them a second life and helping reduce this growing issue (source: Environmental Protection Agency, 2021).
https://www.roadrunnerwm.com/blog/textile-waste-environmental-crisis
Eco-Friendly Quilting Tips:
- Use thrifted clothes or fabric scraps.
- Choose organic threads and avoid synthetic materials.
2. Bake Homemade Bread (Sourdough, Anyone?)
Baking your own sourdough bread is a simple way to reduce plastic packaging and enjoy delicious, homemade bread. With just a few ingredients, you can create bread that’s free from preservatives and unnecessary waste. Plus, nurturing a sourdough starter can be a fun, rewarding winter project. A delicious, nutritious, and eco-friendly way to warm up on cold winter days!
Why Sourdough Is Sustainable:
- No plastic packaging.
- A starter can last for years, cutting down on waste.
3. Plan for Your Spring Garden
Winter is the perfect time to plan your spring garden. You can choose native plants, start seeds indoors in biodegradable pots, and even set up a composting system. These preparations reduce waste and ensure a more sustainable growing season when spring arrives.
Gardening can also help combat food waste, as nearly 40% of the food produced in the U.S. is wasted, much of which could be composted to enrich the soil for future growth (source: United States Department of Agriculture, 2020).
https://www.usda.gov/foodwaste/faqs
Sustainable Gardening Tips:
- Use organic methods.
- Start seeds in biodegradable pots and plan a compost system.
4. Upcycle and Craft with Natural Materials
Winter is a great time for crafting. Instead of buying new items, try upcycling materials like wood, glass, or fabric. Create unique home décor, gifts, or storage solutions while reducing waste and giving old items a second life.
Crafting Tips:
- Repurpose old jars, fabric scraps, recycled paper egg cartons, or wood.
- Use natural materials like wool, wood, or clay.
5. Get Outside for Winter Walks
Embrace the outdoors with winter hikes or nature walks. It’s a peaceful way to connect with nature and reduce your carbon footprint. Bundle up, explore local parks, and take in the beauty of the season, all while leaving minimal impact on the environment. Walking also helps reduce the reliance on cars, which are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, transportation accounts for nearly 28% of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, and reducing car use can have a significant positive impact on the planet (source: Environmental Protection Agency, 2022). In addition to this, it’s great for you! Walking has been shown to boost mood and improve circulation, which is especially beneficial during the colder months. Regular walking can even reduce the risk of heart disease, which increases in winter due to colder temperatures (source: American Heart Association, 2021).
https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/fast-facts-transportation-greenhouse-gas-emissions
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/getting-active/how-to-stay-active-in-cold-weather
Nature Walk Tips:
- Wear layers to stay warm without relying on disposable clothing.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and pick up any litter you see.
Embrace a Greener Winter
This winter, try incorporating these sustainable hobbies into your routine. Whether you’re quilting, baking, planning your garden, crafting, or enjoying nature, these activities are good for both you and the planet.
Share your eco-friendly projects with us on Instagram using #EcoWinterHobbies and #DitchPlasticPackaging - we’d love to see how you’re making this winter greener!