Sisters Eleisha and Ali bring over a decade of low-waste living experience to One Can Hope. Eleisha, a refillery owner, and Ali, a content creator known for vir...
Join Eleisha and Ali as they explore the holiday tradition of gift wrapping and its surprising environmental impact. From the history of wrapping paper to sustainable alternatives like cloth wraps and reused materials, this episode is full of tips to help you reduce waste without sacrificing the joy of giving.
Key Takeaways
Wrapping Paper Waste: Discover just how much wrapping paper is used annually and why most of it isn't recyclable.
The Crumple Test: A simple trick to determine if your wrapping paper can be recycled.
Sustainable Wrapping Alternatives: From fabric wraps to maps, discover creative and budget-friendly ideas to replace traditional wrapping paper.
Cloth Wrapping Benefits: Learn how cloth wrapping can reduce waste, be reused for years, and even support sensory needs or arthritis-friendly gifting.
History of Wrapping: Did you know wrapping paper originated in second-century China? Plus, hear about the Japanese tradition of furoshiki and its modern sustainable revival.
Links
Wrapping Paper Waste
Distance to the Moon
Sundale Research
Gift Wrap Origins
Hallmark's Hand in Modern Gift Wrapping
Recycling Gift Wrap
Learn more about Eleisha’s refillery and shop: mainlineshift.com
Follow Ali’s viral upcycling tips on social media: @tiny_waste
Join the Conversation
How do you wrap your gifts? Share your favorite sustainable wrapping ideas by tagging us on social media: @OneCanHopePodcast.
--------
30:17
Lords a Leaping | Holiday Traditions
Reimagine the magic of the holiday season with a sustainable twist! Eleisha and Ali revisit the 12 Days of Christmas, unraveling its bird-heavy gift list with humor and insight, while sharing thoughtful ways to modernize your traditions.
Key Takeaways
The 12 Days of Sustainability: A tongue-in-cheek look at what’s practical, what’s whimsical, and what needs a modern update from this classic carol.
Personalized Traditions: Make memories that matter with unique holiday activities, like scavenger hunts and family-made gifts.
DIY Advent Calendars: Creative ideas for countdown calendars that are fun, personal, and reusable.
Eco-Friendly Cards: Ideas for reducing the environmental impact of greeting cards without losing the joy of connection.
Links
Turtle Dove Conservation Efforts
Methane from Cows
Check out Eleisha’s refillery and sustainable goods shop: mainlineshift.com
Follow Ali’s viral upcycling tips on social media: @tiny_waste
--------
29:33
Haul Out the Holly | Christmas Decorations
Keep your holiday spirit bright and your carbon footprint light as Eleisha and Ali compare real vs. artificial Christmas trees and share ways to make your home merry and sustainable this season.
Key Takeaways
Real vs. Artificial Trees: Breaking down the environmental pros and cons of each option—and what to consider before making your choice.
Creative Decoration Ideas: From fabric-scrap garlands to DIY lanterns, we’ve got ways to decorate with style and sustainability.
Tree Rentals: A surprising third option that might just be the future of eco-friendly holiday decorating.
Lighting Tips: How switching to LEDs can save energy and brighten the season without breaking the grid.
Memories Over Mass Production: The magic of personalized ornaments and traditions that bring meaning to your decorations.
Links
Real vs. Fake Trees
Well-Maintained Forests Store Carbon
Natural Climate Solutions
National Christmas Tree Association
Forest Stewardship Council
Artificial Tree Reuse
Philly Goat Project
Tree Rentals
America is Brighter During Holidays
Seasonal Light Energy Consumption
Energy from Christmas Day
LED's Use Less Energy
Learn more about Eleisha’s refillery and shop: mainlineshift.com
Follow Ali’s viral upcycling tips on social media: @tiny_waste
Join the Conversation
What’s your go-to decoration strategy? Do you team up with tradition or try something new each year? Share your favorite eco-friendly holiday hacks by tagging us on social media @OneCanHopePodcast.
--------
32:12
Black Friday | Green Choices
Black Friday is here—the unofficial holiday of overconsumption. But what if it didn’t have to be that way? This week, Eleisha and Ali uncover the history of Black Friday, explore its environmental toll, and offer practical tips for turning a day of retail frenzy into one of intentional and meaningful choices. Whether you’re navigating deals or opting out entirely, we’ve got ideas to make your holiday season more thoughtful and sustainable.
Key Takeaways
The Origins of Black Friday: How Philadelphia gave this shopping day its infamous name—and how it’s evolved over the years.
Environmental Costs of Returns: Did you know 80% of online returns end up in landfills? Plus, the massive carbon footprint tied to shipping and packaging.
Sustainable Shopping Tips: Make a list, prioritize quality over quantity, and watch out for those inflated discounts!
Shop Small, Shop Local: Support your community and align your purchases with your values by choosing brands that care about sustainability.
Buy Nothing Day: Skip the sales and spend the day decluttering, donating, or hosting a toy swap with friends.
Links
History of Black Friday
Optoro’s Report on Returns and Waste
Thanksgiving Weekend Spending
2022 Retail Returns Rate
Returns Frequently End Up in Landfills
Online Packaging Waste
2022 Paper & Cardboard Recycling Rates
Learn more about Eleisha’s refillery and shop: mainlineshift.com
Follow Ali’s upcycling and low-waste tips on social media: @tiny_waste
Join the Conversation
How are you staying sustainable this Black Friday? Are you shopping small, celebrating Buy Nothing Day, or embracing a mindful gift-giving season? Tag us @OneCanHopePodcast on social media and share your sustainable shopping wins!
--------
27:36
Gobble Gobble | Season's Eatings
This week, Ali and Eleisha are serving up a feast of tips just in time for Thanksgiving! From shocking food waste facts to embracing seasonal produce, the sisters will explore how to make your holiday meals more mindful and eco-friendly. Plus, they'll dive into the Slow Food movement and share personal stories about CSAs, farmers markets, and apple-picking adventures. Whether you’re hosting a big gathering or enjoying an intimate meal, this episode will leave you inspired to savor the season sustainably.
Key Takeaways
Food Waste Facts: How much waste we generate during Thanksgiving and its impact on the planet.
Seasonal Eating: Why eating with the seasons is better for the environment, your health, and your taste buds.
Slow Food Movement: A deep dive into slowing down to appreciate the journey from farm to table.
Local Food Sources: Exploring CSAs, farmers markets, and u-pick farms for fresher, less wasteful produce.
Gratitude Through Food: How engaging with your food can enrich your holiday experience.
Links
Thanksgiving Waste Facts
Seasonal Food Guide
Slow Food International
Learn more about Eleisha’s refillery and shop: mainlineshift.com
Follow Ali’s upcycling tips on Instagram: @tiny_waste
Join the Conversation? Tag us on Instagram @OneCanHopePodcast and inspire others to start eating with the seasons.
Sisters Eleisha and Ali bring over a decade of low-waste living experience to One Can Hope. Eleisha, a refillery owner, and Ali, a content creator known for viral upcycling hacks, share expert tips and plenty of laughs as they explore practical ways to live more sustainably. One Can Hope offers a refreshing sense of optimism for those feeling climate anxiety, focusing on hopeful, doable steps to help you make greener choices—without sacrificing comfort or fun.