Holiday decorations are meant to be festive and bright, but unfortunately, the consequences of such frivolity can be harmful for our beloved planet Earth.
It is not necessary to sacrifice all of the holiday sparkle just to have a greener Christmas. However, it is in the best interest of all world citizens to cut back whenever possible, and be conscious of how we are using and abusing resources during the holiday season. Following these tips can help to minimize environmental damage caused by Christmas splurging.
Tip 1: Avoid Holiday Excess by Giving Back
One major problem with global impact is waste. Everyone will purchase things, with the best intentions, that end up going unused or unnecessary. Why not put these items to good use for another family who really needs it? The Salvation Army Christmas Drive is a perfect example of how we can all give back to other families in our communities during the holiday season. Also, charities like Goodwill and local shelters can always use extra clothes or gifts for needy families and the season is about giving. Remember… recycle, reuse, re-purpose and give back.
Tip 2: Choose a Christmas Tree from a Tree Farm
When choosing a Christmas tree, tree farms are the way to go for the sake of the planet. Fake trees use nonrenewable resources to create, and wild trees take longer to replenish. With a tree farm, every tree cut down will be replanted – no harm done and a stunning, fresh Christmas tree can be purchased, decorated and enjoyed throughout this 2009 holiday season.
Tip 3: Reuse Decorations
There are certain Christmas decorations that can be reused year after year, with hardly any need to discard or replace items. Families can save Christmas stockings, hangers, garlands, wreaths, ornaments, the tree stand and skirt, lights, etcetera. Reusing, as much as possible, helps eliminate waste. The simple fact is that when the life of a product is extended, supply and demand is reduced and translates to a happier planet.
Tip 4: DIY When Possible
One advantage of creating one’s own ‘do-it-yourself’ Christmas décor at home is that there are so many options to choose from, including materials, shapes and holiday themes for decorations and ornaments. For example, one may decide to make an advent calendar from recycled paper instead of purchasing one which is made from non-green plastic. Home craft projects also provide entertainment and are a great way to keep kids busy during the holidays. Here are more great ideas:
- One of a kind tree garland from recycled papers and raffia
- Homemade edible ornaments for the Christmas tree (a green and a frugal lifestyle choice; not to mention yummy!)
- A family project to create an heirloom tree skirt from fabric and embellishments.
Tip 5: Find Alternatives
Tinsel and glitter are sparkling and bright, but are terrible for the environment in both their creation and disposal. Those who already possess environmentally unfriendly decorations should use them to prevent them from going to waste, but should find alternatives before purchasing for this and future Christmas seasons.
Instead of using tinsel for a tree, one may make garlands out of cranberries, paper or raffia, or perhaps create eco-friendly tinsel by shredding recycled metallic paper. Another fun option is using fabric ribbons and using several tendrils that spiral from the top of the tree to the bottom.
Families can enjoy a green Christmas without losing any of the holiday sparkle by decorating with environmentally conscious materials, recycling from years past, and using materials found around the home, whenever it is possible. Keep in mind that the true sparkle of the Christmas season comes from the heart.
