Twinkling lights, glittering garlands, decorated trees, and streets that light up: an atmosphere, that of Christmas, that lights up the streets, buildings, and homes of millions of families every year. But along with the splendour of the holiday season comes a surge in energy consumption: illuminations lit for many hours, increasingly complex electrical decorations, and intensive use of household appliances all contribute to rising both utility bills and environmental impact.
Less consumption, more safety
There is good news, however: today there are many solutions, simple, creative and affordable for everyone, that allow people to enjoy the magic of Christmas lights whilst reducing consumption and emissions. For example, in recent years, LED technologies have revolutionised the world of light decorations: compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, they last longer and produce less heat, making them safer especially in enclosed spaces or near easily flammable materials.
This makes it possible to use decorative elements with low impact and to keep lights on for longer intervals, without heavily impacting utility bill costs. In addition, many of the newer LED chains have auto-off systems, built-in timers or smart features that allow you to set customised on/off times or control the lights via smartphone.
Another effective shrewdness concerns precisely the time of use: during the festive season it often happens that the luminaries remain on from morning to night: instead, setting more targeted time slots, such as from 5 to 10 p.m., when people spend more time at home, allows them to reduce consumption without sacrificing the scenic effect.
Solar-powered decorations
Still, solar-powered decorations, particularly useful for balconies, patios and gardens, are also becoming more popular in recent years. Small integrated panels store energy during the day and release it when the sun goes down, powering garlands or lighting points without any impact on utility bills. In areas with good exposure, therefore, they are solutions that can replace traditional outdoor luminaries altogether, while still maintaining the same visual pleasantness.
Alongside more efficient technologies, then, there is the possibility of rediscovering a more natural aesthetic, made up of handmade decorations made from simple materials: natural wax candles, glass jars turned into lanterns, branches, pine cones and natural elements that can create a warm and welcoming atmosphere without resorting to excessive artificial lighting. Be careful with candles, however: they should always be used with caution and never left unattended, especially in the presence of children or four-legged friends.
Less but better and more maintenance
The principle of “less but better” can also make a difference: instead of multiplying light chains in every corner of the house, why not concentrate a few but well-maintained ones in strategic spots? A simple solution that at the same time provides an orderly and striking scenic effect, reducing waste and visual clutter.
Another aspect concerns maintenance and reuse: many of the lights purchased in past years can be used again by simply replacing a few bulbs or fixing small defects in the wiring. In short, extending the life of the products we already own is one of the most sustainable behaviours of all: it avoids waste, reduces the production of new materials, and relieves costs.
Christmas, then, remains the festival of lights, but that does not mean it has to be the festival of waste. And with some small conscious choices, it is still possible not to lose the magic-effect typical of the period and create a cosy atmosphere while respecting the environment. Because, as they say? From small gestures, comes great sustainability.
