Going Green for the Holidays
My family and I are looking for ways to "go green" during the holidays - like using the energy efficient Christmas lights and making homemade wrapping paper from old newspaper. I'd love to hear ideas from others on how to make the holidays more environmentally friendly!
Tags: environment, green, holiday
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Holly on -
Use live greenery as decor. Rosemary and thyme smell delicious and look great at the same time. You'll end up with that old-fashioned Christmas feel and know that you didn't break the bank or have to throw out that plastic garland at the end of the season.
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Permalink Reply by Trees Instead on -
I will be sending cards plus a Tree, so a tree is planted in honor of each person I send the holiday card to, the best part you can send your own card design or use one of their templates, each card is customized to each of the person or family I send cards to with tree number & location and their names + my own message. The best part they are Only $4.99 each. it from Trees Instead the link is http://www.treesinstead.com/Holiday_cards__green.php they also sell tree dedication as gifts:
http://www.treesinstead.com/Christmas_Gift__Green.php
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Permalink Reply by Mary on -
We use pine cones from the pine tree and boughs from the pine tree to decorate. We also traded some of our old lights for the new LED lights at Home Depot this last week-end- well they gave us $3 off coupons towards the LED lights. I use my fresh herbs that are left over from my garden to cook with.
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Permalink Reply by Theresa on -
One thing we've done during the holidays to save energy and money is limit the amount of lights we use. I try to use candles when we have guest to give my home that extra holiday glow. We also put timers on the holiday lights we do use so that we can enjoy them while we are home but they aren't on all night long. It's also great because you don't have to run around turning off all the lights when you are tired and ready to go to bed.
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Permalink Reply by Crystal on -
I just posted a great video with some info on going green for the holidays.
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Permalink Reply by Patrick Copell on -
I like to use popcorn as decoration on the tree.
As long as I can keep the Dog off it! :)
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Permalink Reply by Ashley on -
Well, I assume you have fake trees? That's always good. If not, choose one with recycleable plastics. ALSO important.... I am a new homeowner too, spending her first holiday in her house (alone, sobb...jkjk!) and I've decided against any kind of plastid outdoor decorations altogether. They fade fast, and they are unneeded.... of course if you like them... then buy my share up ;) hehhee.
Also.... making recycleable xmas tree ornaments out of plastic yogurt containers for angel bodies, and popsicle sticks, or straws and glitter for snowflakes... just go nuts with it, recycleables are GREAT home made projects, esp if you have little ones in your family somewhere.... like nieces, nephews, or friends who have kids are great too... make them sign their work as well, itll make them feel cool when they come to find their piece on your tree.... I also love holly's idea with the rosemary and live greenery.... Good luck! :D
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Permalink Reply by Missi on -
There are now outdoor lights available that are solar powered. Also, use a real tree instead of a plastic one and recycle into fish beds. There are usually collection sites in each community. Use vintage ornaments, instead of buying new. I often use natural elements on my trees, like pinecones tied with red ribbon, birds nests, and seed pods. Be creative, but use less manmade items.
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Permalink Reply by Megan on -
Eco-Friendly Wrapping Paper Ideas
Environmental experts point out that recycled and chlorine-free wrapping paper is the best ecological choice, while pointing out that foil or papers with metallic surfaces cannot be recycled. But they also suggest thinking outside the box with these ideas:
• Wrap presents in materials which would otherwise be discarded, such as old maps, newspapers, magazine pages, and brown bags.
• Place your gift in a cloth bag or a bag made from sturdy paper so it can be reused.
• Opt for baskets or hat boxes as another reusable container. Put kitchen utensils in an oven mitt or wrap in a kitchen towel.
• Hang jewelry, such as bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, directly on the Christmas tree.
• Tie up your packages with reusable raffia, fabric ribbons and bows, shoestrings, and measuring tape.
• Adorn presents with pine cones, fir branches, or holly sprigs.
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Permalink Reply by Zabby on -
Great link from a Twitter follower. The blog is about "green" decor. There's a whole series about greening your christmas. Check it out.
http://www.greenyourdecor.com/
