Dreaming of a Green Christmas: Sustainability and creation care for busy people

Wouldn’t it be great if we could make Christmas greener, less wasteful, less stressful, more enjoyable, and with more space to focus on what it’s really all about? Written for families to work through, Dreaming of a Green Christmas is an essential companion as you prepare for the festive season. With 111 practical eco-tips to select from, you’ll find inspiration and encouragement too, with pauses in the busyness for moments of biblical reflection that speak of God’s love for his creation – people and planet.

‘This is the perfect book to help us all celebrate and enjoy Christmas in ways that also take care of the world Jesus entered into. No need to feel guilty or stressed – Olivia guides us lightly through the maze. So get reading and get on with it!’

Dr Ruth Valerio, environmentalist, theologian, social activist and author

‘Grounded in biblical wisdom and filled with practical ideas, this book serves as a catalyst for conversations about creating a slower approach to Christmas with more time for what truly matters. So when the shops start to fill with stuff we don’t need, the true cost of which we can’t see, dare to dream that there is another, greener way. Make a cuppa and start here…’

Helen Stephens, church relations manager, A Rocha UK

‘Have you ever longed to do Christmas differently but not been sure how to make the change? If so, this wonderful book is just for you. Olivia will help you to declutter your Christmas of unsustainable (and often stressful) features, to fill it with more simplicity, joy and laughter.’ The Revd Margot R. Hodson, director of theology and education, The John Ray Initiative

‘Packed full of practical suggestions, and rooted in biblical wisdom, Olivia has managed to help us think about greening our Christmases without lots of handwringing or guilt. This is a highly accessible guide, especially for busy households, which will give you the confidence to take action. As she says, we can’t do everything. But we can do THIS.’

Sarah Edwards, executive director, JustMoney Movement (justmoney.org.uk)

‘This book is brimming with inspiration and tips to help you reduce your impact on the planet at Christmas, while having fun and pausing to reflect on the “reason for the season”. Highly recommended!’

Caroline Pomeroy, director, Climate Stewards

‘This book is for life, not just for Christmas! Packed with ideas about how to give a gift to the world, and rooted in scripture, this easy-to-read book has something for everyone, from eco- warriors to those just starting a green journey. Perfect for families, individuals, Eco Churches and groups.’

Debbie, David and Jamie Hawker, authors of Changing the Climate (BRF Ministries, 2021)

‘Olivia’s book offers a rare and wonderful moment when love of God, his word and his world all come together. Her reflections are thought-provoking and her advice accessible. I would recommend to anyone wanting to worship God afresh, through practical acts of love for his good creation at Christmas.’

Hannah Mann, environment programme manager, diocese of Oxford

‘A wide-ranging, realistic and compassionate guide that includes reflective sections to feed your soul, and doesn’t assume a one-size-fits-all solution. There’s plenty here to get the eco-curious started, as well as ideas for those a bit further along in their sustainability journey. Many of the ideas can be taken forward into the rest of the year.’

Ruth Bancewicz, church engagement director, The Faraday Institute for Science and Religion, Cambridge

‘Olivia’s book helps us to think beyond a “White Christmas” and take steps towards a green, sustainable one. Full of hints to help you build new Christmas traditions that celebrate God’s gift of life in Jesus and share it not only with family and friends but the whole planet. Don’t just dream of a “Green Christmas” – begin to live it!’

Revd Dr Dave Gregory, Baptist minister and Missioner for Science and Environment