A Recycled Holiday - Think Green!

   

A lot goes into parties and celebration during the holidays but we can all share satisfaction in reducing the amount of non biodegradable materials we bury into our planet. Without going through too much trouble, you can green up your Hanukah, Christmas and New Year activities with these simple tips.


• Green Shopping Bags – I know we are all doing a good job of bagging our groceries now in recycled paper or bringing our own recycled bags to the grocery store but we can also apply that to our holiday shopping by bringing our own recycled bag to the mall. Shopping is a pleasure, do so without hurting the environment. Bag those holiday gifts and decorations in your own reusable bag.


• Recycled Dinner Party – Oh yeah, throw one! Just kidding! But when hosting holiday events, parties or dinner, try using recycled paper plates and napkins, plastic ware and reusable glass. Check online or your local store for these biodegradable wares. Re-using materials keeps items out of landfills, saves energy and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

• The Power of the Internet – The average American spends more than three hours online. Try sending e-Holiday greetings to your loved ones, and save energy and save money. Try www.holidays.net for free holiday greeting cards, they look so chic and creative too.

• Go Natural on Toy Purchase this holiday – Not only am I afraid of product recalls these days due to harmful chemicals or lead paints, I know that my baby enjoys playing with a spoon and a cup as much as a toy. Encourage your kids to be creative in making their own toy from holiday items found around the house or the neighborhood, be it a cardboards or plastic cups. If you absolutely have to buy a toy that requires active play and one that does not require batteries. More than 14 billion toxic batteries enter our landfills each year—enough to reach the moon and back.

• Reduce your energy consumption- Turn down the thermostat and cuddle some more with family at night time. If you are not home, turn off your heater or air conditioning system.