Start a low-waste holiday tradition

livinggreen.org.November 2008

Dear Living Green 365 readers, What do you do during Thanksgiving break? My family's tradition is to take a hike and a family photo on Thanksgiving afternoon. Traditions are wonderful. Did you know that household waste increases by more than 25% between Thanksgiving and the new year? Live green by starting a new low-waste holiday tradition this year.

Start a low-waste holiday tradition

It is more than a garbage issue Garbage is created when we throw something away, but that's not the only impact the things we buy have on the environment. The manufacture and transportation of our goods are sometimes just as important as the use and disposal of those goods: A 2005 study found that 58% of the energy "used" by a personal computer occurs before a customer buys it. Emerging research suggests that nearly 50% of our U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are tied to our consumption of goods, materials, and food. At the same time, recent polls indicate that most Americans believe the holidays should be more about family and caring for others rather than giving and receiving gifts. Give the gift of time Pick a night during the holiday season to volunteer together. Bake a family recipe together. Take a hike or spend time outdoors. Visit a new city park, state park, or wildlife refuge. Imagine life long-ago at a Minnesota Historical Society holiday event. Create felted wool hats, mittens, and scarves from salvaged wool sweaters for charity. Get a group together and make them at Goodwill/Easter Seals. Green your next family gathering. Review tips for gatherings in the July 2008 newsletter. When buying a gift Buy durable products with long-term warranties. Buy products that are easy to recycle, repair, and reuse. Look for gifts that are unpackaged or minimally packaged, without unnecessary plastic wrap or cardboard backing. Know the store's return policy and include tags or receipts for easier exchange or return. Bring your own bag when you shop this holiday season. They are easier to carry and usually hold more stuff. Consider giving an experience, such as tickets to a concert or dinner for two at your favorite restaurant. Gift wrapping ideas Create reusable gift boxes and cloth bags that can be used year after year. Make gift bags out of old wallpaper or maps. Wrap with old sheet music or other alternatives.