Why the trend matters
As December approaches, shelves around the world fill with time-honored Advent calendars and a new wave of adult-oriented versions. These calendars promise daily treats, luxury samples, or quirky experiences for grown-ups. But environmental organizations argue that the trend signals a broader pattern of superfluous consumerism, where the holiday season fuels packaging waste, unsustainable production, and a culture of over-consumption.
What makes adult calendars unique
Traditional Advent calendars centered on chocolate or small toys for children. The adult variants often emphasize beauty products, premium snacks, or experiential vouchers. While some offerings are reusable or minimal in packaging, many are novelty items housed in single-use packaging or arrive via fast fashion-style purchasing bursts. The result is a spike in plastic wrappers, foil, blister packs, and extra carbon emissions from frequent shopping trips and courier deliveries.
Environmental concerns
Environmental groups point to several issues: excessive packaging, short product lifespans, and the pressure to upgrade brands or lines year after year. Critics say the calendars encourage conspicuous consumption during a season that already prioritizes gift-giving, food waste, and energy use. In some cases, the calendars create a culture of “rewarding yourself” with disposable items rather than meaningful, sustainable experiences.
What consumers can do
Experts suggest practical steps for shoppers who want to celebrate without adding to waste. Consider:
- Choosing calendars that prioritize reusable packaging, refillable products, or items with long-term value.
- Supporting brands with transparent sourcing, fair labor practices, and robust recycling programs.
- Choosing non-seasonal, practical gifts or DIY calendars made from recycled materials.
- Minimizing impulse buys by planning ahead and avoiding excess novelty items.
Alternatives that align with sustainable values
Green campaigns encourage festive setups that reduce waste while maintaining the anticipation and joy of December. Alternatives include a no-wrap pledge, a handmade Advent calendar filled with small, useful items, or a “green” calendar featuring daily tips on sustainable living, energy-saving ideas, or local experiences like community garden visits.
What retailers are saying
Retailers emphasize that consumer demand drives product evolution. Some brands are increasingly offering recyclable or compostable packaging, refillable containers, or calendars featuring only digital experiences, such as vouchers redeemable online to cut down on physical waste. The debate has sparked a broader conversation about responsible shopping, even as the calendar season remains a commercial high point.
Bottom line
While adult Advent calendars can be a playful seasonal tradition for some, environmental groups warn that the trend risks turning celebration into costly waste. Consumers who want to celebrate responsibly can choose options with minimal packaging, long-lasting value, and transparent sustainability practices. For those who still love the ritual, there are plenty of eco-friendly ways to keep the tradition alive without compromising the planet.
