Enjoy this Green Tuesday blog from our friends at Earth Day Network and feel free to share your own green holiday tip in the comments section. Earth Day Network's year-round mission is to broaden, diversify and activate the environmental movement worldwide, through a combination of education, public policy, and consumer campaigns.
www.earthday.org
While the holiday season is one that everyone—young and old alike—looks forward to each year, it can often be stressful. The time is filled with so much to do, so little time, and an overwhelming feeling that everything has to be done just right. Many of us can relate.
But the season does not have to be one where we put our commitment to the earth and environment on hold and simply barrel through no holds barred. Below are simple tips you can use to make this holiday season just a little bit greener.
- Shop sustainably and buy locally: Help local artisans and the environment by choosing gifts that are made from recycled materials and help small businesses. Don’t forget to visit thrift shops or garage sales as well. Buying local foods and goods helps reduce energy use and carbon emissions. It good for the local economy and it’s cleaner for the environment!
- Go outside: Instead of going to the mall or staying indoors go outside and enjoy nature. Staying active during the holidays will be good for your health, and going for walks or hikes makes for good bonding time with family.
- Use LED lights: Energy use skyrockets during the holidays. Try using incandescent light bulbs/strands, such as LEDs, instead—some are even solar-powered. You can save a significant amount of electricity during the holidays and reduce your electric bill.
- Lower your thermostat: If the fireplace is lit and/or there is a large group of people in your house over the holidays, lower your thermostat to reduce energy consumption and costs.
- Green greetings: Billions of holiday cards are sent in the U.S. each year. Consider an e-card or buy recycled cards. Use old greeting cards to make gift tags, note cards, and tree ornaments.
- Recycle and dispose of your waste properly: Over the holidays there is a ton of waste and you can help to reduce energy usage by properly disposing of it. Gift boxes, wrapping paper, tissue paper, and product packaging—recycle as much as possible.
We truly believe that every day is Earth Day. Whether it is December 25th, July 4th, or even January 1st, there are a number of simple ways to make each day greener. Thank you for doing your part.
