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The Guardian took a distinctly Scrooge-like stance this Christmas Day, criticizing traditional holiday celebrations as environmentally destructive. The newspaper condemned seasonal activities including gift-giving, travel, and festive meals, claiming they harm the planet and diminish the true spirit of Christmas.
The publication expressed concern over what it described as excessive holiday consumption, highlighting the environmental toll of Christmas celebrations. According to their analysis, British adults generate approximately 513kg of CO2 equivalent emissions on December 25th, a figure that dwarfs the typical daily average of 22kg CO2e.
Guardian celebrates Christmas with an article about it being bad for the climate. There's a joke about the Grinch being green here, somewhere. pic.twitter.com/sNVZfZULFB
— Jack Montgomery (@JackBMontgomery) December 25, 2024
These calculations encompass all aspects of Christmas celebrations, from transportation and presents to decorations and seasonal fare. The Guardian’s research emphasized how this annual tradition, celebrated by millions in affluent nations, has allegedly been transformed by commercial interests into an environmentally damaging event.
“We have been deliberately sold a vision of Christmas that is based on material consumption. We are constantly bombarded by advertising and media that tells us that if we aren’t spending money on things, we are not doing Christmas properly. This is destroying the whole meaning of Christmas as well as destroying the planet,” said Melanie Nazareth from Christian Climate Action, as quoted in the article.
A little Christmas gift for you 🎄
Our librarian, Miguel Garcia, shows the history of the Christmas tree throughout Europe and goes behind the scenes to reveal the exquisite conifer drawings of Ferdinand Bauer.
Enjoy the holidays! pic.twitter.com/dysunBe2L8
— Botanic Gardens of Sydney (@BotanicSydney) December 24, 2024
The newspaper concluded with recommendations for more environmentally conscious holiday celebrations, suggesting reduced travel, fewer gifts, and more modest food consumption. Their message emphasized the importance of showing consideration not just to fellow humans but to the environment during the festive season.
