Want some inspiration for a sustainable Easter?
Spring is finally here and as we prepare to celebrate Easter, it is the perfect opportunity to reflect not only on renewal and new beginnings, but also on how our choices impact the environment. From chocolate treats to seasonal decorations, Easter traditions can generate more waste than we realise. However, a few easy steps can help us celebrate in a much more sustainable way.
The environmental impact of Easter
Easter may be a short celebration, but its environmental footprint is quite significant:
– In the UK alone, around 80 million Easter eggs are sold each year. This results in an estimated 3,000+ tonnes of packaging waste, much of which is plastic that cannot be easily recycled.
– Globally, chocolate production is linked to deforestation and carbon emissions, particularly in regions where cocoa farming is not sustainably managed. (World Wildlife Fund – WWF)
These figures highlight how small individual choices, when multiplied, can have a large-scale impact.
Rethink your Easter treats
Chocolate eggs are a staple of Easter, but they often come wrapped in layers of plastic and foil. This year, you may want to consider choosing ethically sourced chocolate with minimal or recyclable packaging. Palm oil is commonly used within chocolate, which is a huge driver of deforestation, removing habitats for endangered creatures such as orangutans. Purchasing your treats that are sustainably sourced or opting for palm oil free is a great way to help the environment. This is also the case for cocoa; brands that prioritise fair trade and sustainable cocoa farming helps protect both the planet and the communities behind your treats.
Better yet why not try making your own Easter goodies at home? It’s a fun activity, reduces unnecessary packaging and you can add extra goodies to your chocolate, such as rice crispies or marshmallows.
Make or buy decorations that you can use again
Easter is a great chance to decorate your home for the season. Instead of buying disposable decorations, embrace natural and reusable options. Crafting decorations from recycled materials can reduce household waste by up to 20%. Think hand-painted eggs, dried flowers, or decorations made from recycled materials. Crafting your own decor is not only environmentally friendly but is also a great way to involve family and friends in the celebration.
For young children, Easter bonnets or potato printing is a fun activity to keep their creative minds busy. For older children, you may want to consider something more challenging, such as making their own Easter cards from left over card and wrappers. Visit this blog for some inspiration.
A biodiverse Easter egg hunt
Easter egg hunts are a highlight for many families across the UK, but they can also create waste if plastic eggs and single-use fillers are used. Swapping out plastic eggs for reusable wooden or biodegradable alternatives is a great way to help prevent wastage.
Chocolate treats are usually the go to for egg hunts, but have you considered filling your containers with small, meaningful items like homemade sweets, seeds, or handwritten notes? Not only does this reduce waste, but it also adds a personal touch to the experience.
Source your food locally
Easter is a wonderful time to enjoy seasonal, locally sourced food. Supporting local farmers reduces food miles and ensures fresher ingredients for your meals. Lamb is often a staple meat during this holiday; however, it is not always the lowest impact option. Buying lamb (or any other meat) from your local butcher or farm shop is a great way to know you are avoiding produce that is mass-reared, as well as cutting down on miles that it has travelled to your plate.
Incorporating plant-based dishes into your Easter menu can also lower your environmental footprint while introducing new and exciting flavours. Some examples include vegan shepherd’s pie, spring soup, and stuffed butternut squash. For inspiration on recipes, take a look at our previous blog posts.
What to do with leftover Easter chocolate
After the excitement of Easter, many people find themselves with an abundance of leftover chocolate. Rather than letting it go to waste, there are plenty of simple, sustainable (and delicious) ways to make the most of it.
1. Melt and reuse
Leftover chocolate can be melted down and repurposed:
– Drizzle over fruit or desserts
– Create homemade chocolate bark with nuts or dried fruit
– Dip biscuits or marshmallows for a quick treat
2. Bake it into something new
Chocolate eggs are perfect for baking:
– Chop them up and use in cookies, brownies, or muffins
– Add to pancake or waffle batter for a seasonal twist
– Stir into porridge for an indulgent breakfast treat
3. Make hot chocolate or chocolate drinks
Break the chocolate into pieces and stir into warm milk for:
– A rich hot chocolate
– A homemade mocha when added to coffee
– A chocolate blended milkshake
4. Freeze for later
Chocolate freezes well, so you don’t have to use it all at once. Simply store it in an airtight container and:
– Save for future baking
– Use in desserts throughout the year
5. Share or donate
If you have more than you need, consider sharing with friends, family, or colleagues. Some community groups and food banks may also accept unopened items, helping reduce waste while supporting others.
6. Get creative with DIY gifts
Turn leftover chocolate into thoughtful homemade gifts:
• Chocolate clusters in reusable jars
• Homemade truffles or bars
• Decorative treats wrapped in recyclable packaging
Happy Easter from PC24
Sustainability doesn’t mean giving up traditions, it’s about adapting them in ways that are kinder to the planet. By making small, conscious choices this Easter, we can all contribute to a greener future while still enjoying everything that makes the season special.
Let’s make this Easter a celebration not just of renewal, but of responsibility too.
