Going green is a good idea for any time of year, but especially during the holidays. When we are buying and wrapping presents, most of us have little thought for the environment. Or many of us believe that there really isn’t a way around the traditions, that would also be healthier for mother nature. But in reality, it’s easy to go green for the season, it just requires a little more thought on your part.
For example, all the holiday cards that you send out this year, to family and friends, can amount to a lot of trash. But by purchasing recycled cards, you cut down on the amount of new material being produced. And with a little luck, everyone will be inspired to recycle again when they receive the cards. Therefore really cutting down on that holiday carbon footprint.
When gift shopping try to shop locally as often as possible. This means staying clear of the big chains, and finding items at your local stores. This will cut down on the fuel expended on shipping items across the country, like bigger chain stores practice. That’s less fuel lost, and less harmful emissions sprayed into the air. Plus buying locally is better for your community’s economy, and that’s a huge positive for everyone.
If you’re planning on decorating with lights, try to stick with LED lights. LED lights still look great, and conserve energy when in use. Also you can try and limit the amount of time that your lights are on, which will also conserve energy. Plus the energy you save will also save you money, and nobody would argue with that.
Finally, if you’re really looking for a way to be eco-friendly and want to do the most you can, try using a live tree this year. Instead of cutting down a tree, or buying from a lot where the tree is cut down, instead transplant a live tree. You’ll have to buy a few items for set up, but it’s definitely worth your time. You’ll want to take the tree out of the ground about a week before Christmas, and then put the tree back outside promptly afterward. Then you’ll have a live reusable tree for many years, saving you money, and saving a tree.
Tags: Amount Of Time, Carbon Footprint, Chains, Christmas, Economy, Family And Friends, Gift Shopping, Going Green, Harmful Emissions, Holiday Cards, Holidays, Led Lights, Little Luck, Local Stores, Money, Mother Nature, Time Of Year, Traditions, Trash, Week Before Christmas