Positively Green suggests ways to enjoy the holidays with eco-friendly and energy-wise tips. Here's their top ten: (1) use only rechargable batteries, (2) find creative ways to cut down/reuse wrapping paper to reduce paper waste, (3) use long-lastingsoy and beeswax candles, (4) decorate with natural items e.g. stones, leaves and branches, (5) arrange carpools and rideshares when hosting or attending holiday parties and events, (6) if expecting a house full of guests, lower your thermostat, (7) use essential oils and fresh baked goods to fill the house with wonderful holiday aromas, (8) don't over cook and end up wasting good food; send leftovers home with guests in glass jars instead of plastic wrap, (9) emphasize togetherness and simple pleasures like games, cooking and music, (10) use solar or LED lights, and only use them for 4-6 per night. Bonus tips: (1) make your own holiday wreath, (2) buy a live tree or (3) after the holidays, turn your cut tree into mulch you can use or take to a recycler that will convert it into mulch for public use.
I'll add a few gift-giving tips of my own: (1) Turn your gift-giving into an opportunity to encourage others to be conscious consumers by the eco-friendly gifts you give. (2) Spread the wealth, by gifting personal items that you think others would enjoy as much as you. (3) Be creative, make gifts from recycled materials and things you already have on hand.
Ken O. says:
I noticed at IKEA this week that they are finally carrying rechargeable batteries with chargers. Only a year after Long's Drugs (now owned by CVS) and Home Depot rolled those out. IKEA and Longs sells reusable bags. Not sure about Home Depot.
My suggestions: spend more time than money. If you spend, spend on locally produced goods. Help build up your community that way, to be more self-sufficient. Give the gift of live chickens. The gift that keeps giving!
Cris Bisch says:
Ken, I'm so glad you posted these suggestions. This is exactly what we are doing in our family... more time than money. When we do shop, we support our local community first before shopping outside our area. Instead of wrapping paper and boxes, I give gifts in durable, reusable bags. Some stores provide/sell reusable wine totes that carry as many as six bottles, which are fun bags to fill with an assortment of smaller gifts. This year I am giving mostly homemade culinary and bath gifts made from local and organic ingredients.