During the busy holiday season it can be challenging to keep things eco-friendly in a family household. Running errands, buying gifts, entertaining children and guests can take up a lot of resources and create a lot of trash. You don’t need to forgo all your eco-minded practices during this time of year and you might even adopt some new ones as well as save some money in the process.
Keep these eco-friendly tips in mind:
Wrapping Gifts:
- Find a unique way to wrap a gift. Your children can decorate large pieces paper or you can use the artwork they bring home from school.
- Newspaper can be used to wrap gifts.
- Use fabric to decorate gifts. Fabric can be stored and reused.
- Put the gift into a reusable fabric bag and tie it in a bow – it’s two gifts in one.
Holiday Lights:
- If you haven’t already done so upgrade your festive holiday lights to CFL or LED. You will use about 75% less energy.
- Some home improvement stores even give you a coupon or discount for trading in your old incandescents.
- Don’t forget to use a timer on your lights.
Decorating:
A different option for a tree is to buy a living tree. Sure it’s a little more complicated but you can enjoy the tree for many years to come when you plant it in your backyard.- Decorate with nature; go outside and get berries, branches, and leaves and put them in vases instead of buying decorations.
- Use fun cloth napkins instead of paper ones. They brighten up any table and are easy to throw in the laundry.
Cooking:
- Whether you are cooking for a small or large group allow your oven to multi-task.
- Bake several items at once and use glass and ceramic cookware. Food will cook quicker and you can reduce your cooking temperature.
Buying Gifts:
- Buy less, focus on quality as opposed to quantity, and create thoughtful homemade gifts. Buy used, and shop consignment sales for used toys. Many are in great condition.
- Shop local. There are so many fabulous locally owned brick and mortar and online shops here in the Richmond area.
Cards:
- If you send cards, opt for online cards or recycled paper.
- When you are finished with your cards send them to St. Judes. They accept new and used cards for any occasion all year long. Check out their guidelines for specific details.
Consider creative ways for an ‘Eco-friendly Holiday’. Share your ideas with others by leaving a comment below.
