Waste Reduction During the Holidays Activity – Environmental Science, Worksheets

Help your students think critically about their impact on the environment with this timely and engaging Waste Reduction During the Holidays Activity! Centered around the essential question “How can we celebrate while reducing our environmental footprint?”, this activity challenges students to explore the environmental consequences of holiday habits—and find practical, sustainable solutions.

What Students Will Do

• Analyze Holiday Waste – Students learn about the types and sources of waste generated during the holiday season in the U.S.
• Explore Sustainable Solutions – From eco-friendly gift wrapping to mindful food consumption, students brainstorm realistic ways to reduce waste.
• Reflect & Take Action – With thoughtful prompts and questions, students reflect on their own habits and commit to environmentally conscious changes.

Why Teachers Love This Resource

• Promotes Environmental Awareness – Encourages responsible consumption and sustainability in a relatable, seasonal context.
• Critical Thinking & Real-World Connections – Students apply science and environmental literacy to real-life scenarios.
• Quick, No-Prep Activity – A meaningful one-day lesson that’s ready to print or assign digitally.
• Great for Pre-Holiday Lessons – Perfect for keeping students engaged while still learning before the winter break.

What’s Included?

• Student Activity
• Instructor Answer Key

✨ Teacher Tip: Kick off the activity with a class discussion or short video about holiday waste stats—it sets the stage for powerful student insights and deeper engagement.