Overview
- Germany’s Federal Statistical Office points to the scale of the problem, noting 14.9 million tonnes of paper, cardboard and packaging waste from households in 2023.
- Conventional gift‑wrap with coatings, glitter foils or plastic ribbons is often not recyclable and frequently ends up as residual waste after the holidays.
- Reusable options such as Furoshiki fabric wrapping, saved jars or cloth bags, and upcycled papers like newspapers or old calendars are highlighted as simple, festive alternatives.
- When paper is used, outlets recommend recycled stock identified by the Blue Angel label, skipping plastic tape in favor of folding, paper-based Washi tape or fabric ties, and adding natural décor like dried orange slices or twigs.
- Guidance also extends to the gifts themselves, favoring regional or fair‑trade items from shops such as Weltläden, upcycled or borrowed goods, experience vouchers via Zeit statt Zeug, and longer‑lasting electronics produced under better social and environmental standards.