The holidays are a time for family, friends, and giving, but they can also be a time of excess and wastefulness. Here are 12 tips for making your holiday season a little greener:
1. Choose a real Christmas tree over an artificial one. Artificial trees are typically made from petroleum-based plastics, which are not biodegradable. Real trees are a renewable resource and can be composted after the holidays.
2. Bring your own bags when shopping. Avoid using disposable plastic bags when possible, and bring your own reusable bags instead.
3. Shop locally. Support your local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by shopping at local stores and farmers markets.
4. Consider giving experiences rather than gifts. This could include tickets to a show or a gift certificate for a massage.
5. Make your own gifts. Homemade gifts are often more thoughtful and appreciated than store-bought items.
6. Give eco-friendly gifts. Choose gifts that are made from sustainable materials or that are energy-efficient, such as LED light bulbs.
7. Wrap gifts in reusable materials. Use fabric scraps, old scarves, or even newspapers instead of disposable wrapping paper.
8. Send e-cards. Save paper and postage by sending holiday greetings via email or social media.
9. Use LED lights. LED lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they last longer too.
10. Bring your own reusable cups and dishes. Avoid using disposable plates and cups, and bring your own reusable dishes instead.
11. Compost your holiday food scraps. Turn your holiday food waste into valuable compost for your garden.
12. Recycle your holiday cards. Give your old holiday cards new life by recycling them into gift tags or scrapbooking.