Green for Christmas

How to Stay Green for Christmas

Christmas can be just as cheerful and jolly with these easy tips to make your christmas more sustainable.

Furoshiki

Furoshiki is a traditional Japanese wrapping clothe. You can find various wrapping patterns (here for example), showing how to wrap boxes, books, and even wine bottles. Wrap your presents with fabric that you can reuse year after year. Stock up on fabric in January when Christmas fabric goes on sale to save some more cash. No need to waste money on wrapping paper each year.

Christmas Gifts

Less is more when it comes to Christmas gifts. That is less money, less buyer's remorse, less wasteful gifts. Try to think how practical your gifts are and if the person really needs it. You can even make your own christmas presents. Currently, I'm in love with DIY mason jar gifts. Cookie dough mix, hot cocoa mix, granola, vanilla sugar, seasoned salt, you name it. Put it in a jar and give it to someone. A homemade, thoughtful, and economical gift in a jar!

Also for people that don't need or want anything, you can always donate to a charity in someone's name. The true gift of giving is always a great option for christmas.

Christmas Trees: Fake or Real?

Which is more sustainable and eco-friendly? Apparently buying a REAL tree is better simply because a real tree is biodegradable. Fake trees tend to get thrown out after a few years of use once their looks start to fade (poor trees!). And because they're made of plastic, they will literally last forever in a landfill. So real is the best way to go, but you don't have to buy the typical chopped tree.

You can buy a little christmas tree that is potted, which will last you 2 - 3 years. Sure beats having to buy one every year. After that, you can either plant it, sell it, or dry it to burn or compost.

You can also designate and decorate one of your trees outside as your christmas tree. Of course you would be limited on what decorations you can use. Grandma's old ornaments won't hold up too well to the elements outside and we don't need little birdies making their nests out of garland (or do we? ...hehe).

As much as I understand how eco-friendly it is to have a real tree for christmas, it still kills me a little at the thought of having to chop down a tree. I'll be sure to brain storm and research some good biodegradable reusable fake christmas trees that aren't too tacky for next year. Christmas trees are a must for christmas, wouldn't feel like christmas without one.

Recycle for Christmas!

Christmas (or after christmas) is a great time to recycle (or donate!) old electronics you've been meaning to get rid of. Earth911.com is a great website to find recycling centers for just about everything. You can even find recycling drop-off centers for your christmas tree (real ones)!

Hope everyone has a great christmas! Some christmas recipes will soon follow :)