It is no secret that we are living in a world full of plastic; sadly, it has been estimated that there will be more plastic than fish in our oceans by 2050. However, if we each made small changes to our daily lifestyle we could help reverse this shocking claim.

We accumulate a staggering amount of rubbish and waste over Christmas, in fact, it is the worst time of the year for rubbish to build up so together let's try to reduce our waste and promote a cleaner greener environment.

Here are our top tips to becoming an eco-warrior and reducing your waste this Christmas:

1. To start things off and keep things simple when you are out doing your Christmas shopping this weekend or next bring your own reusable shopping bags with you. Try to reduce the number of bags that are thrown in the bin.

2. Do you wrap? It is a tradition for many households to wrap presents around the festive period but maybe consider ditching it or shop for wrapping paper that can be recycled. You could even get the kids to colour and decorate the paper, a great way to pass a rainy afternoon. Also, try to reuse ribbons, bows, gift bags and boxes whenever possible.

3. Rather than buy a million small presents for family and friends why not give gift cards this Christmas. Not only will it cut down on the stresses of finding the perfect gift but the receiver will be able to choose something they really want or need.

4. Shop small and shop local! Ireland is bursting to the brim with small businesses with a collection of beautiful handmade gifts. Head to your local Christmas market or craft fair and see what treasures you can find to gift this season.

5. You will most likely need a heap of batteries for the kids this year for their electrical goods and toys but instead of picking up disposables why not try reusable batteries. If not ensure batteries are recycled at WEEE collection banks. Most shops and schools have collection boxes.

6. If you have a real Christmas tree recycle it properly at a designated tree recycling centre. Most councils and companies offer this service. The tree will be shredded and composted to help with next years trees. Also, make sure you buy your tree from a sustainable grower.

7. Only cook what you need this Christmas. We all love having extras but realistically everything bar the meat goes to waste. Think ahead before you peel and if you do end up with loads of scraps put it in jars or containers and refrigerate or freeze for another day.

8. After Christmas donate any unwanted gifts to charity, do not throw them away.

9. And finally, when it comes to the kids don't overdo it. Use the four gift rule this Christmas.

Each year we struggle deciding what to buy our smallies and even family and friends so why give the four gift rule a shot and prevent any unnecessary overspending.

If you have any other tips to help reduce waste over the Christmas be sure to let us know in the comments.