Whether or not there is snow on the ground for the holiday season, there are ways to enjoy a truly “green” Christmas, saving money and energy and conserving our precious natural resources.
Eco cards: Save trees by sending electronic cards instead of paper ones. You could even use the eco-friendly cards the University has designed for the holiday season this year.
An illuminating idea: Use LED lights, which consume up to 95 per cent less energy than regular lights. They last longer, keep your electricity costs down and are less of a fire hazard. Don’t use any more than you need and use a timer to turn them off automatically before bedtime.
Real greenery: During the fall cleanup, collect pine or fir branches to make into a wreath. Use your imagination to create a unique decoration with colourful fruits.
Tree deco: Make your own Christmas tree ornaments this year with pine cones, recycled paper or fruit. Give your tree a snowed-in look by threading cotton wool on string. Hang decorated gingerbread cookies on the branches.
Cut consumerism: Keep your costs down by shopping at second-hand stores. Support local farmers by putting together a “food box” as a gift. Donate to charity in a friend’s name. Buy from fair trade shops. Offer gift certificates to a restaurant, sports event or the theatre.
Wrap it up: Wrap your presents in recycled wrapping paper. Better yet, use paper that can be recycled afterward, such as newspaper or brown paper bags and ask your kids to draw on them. Reusable bags are another eco friendly option. Or wrap your gifts in linen, which can be used again and again. Avoid unrecyclable plastic bows and ribbon.
Sustainable branches: Purchase a live potted tree, which can be kept indoors for seven to 10 days and then put outside in a sheltered area to be planted in the spring or reused next Christmas. Or decorate indoor plants.
Eating for the environment: Cook a little less meat this year. Meat products generate greenhouse gases. Buy Canadian wine for your parties.
Collective cleanup: Instead of using disposable dishes, share the load – some people cook, some wash up afterwards. Store your leftovers in plastic containers rather than wrapping them in easily discardable aluminum foil or saran wrap.
Eco resolution: Make a pledge to be kinder to the environment as a new year’s resolution.
