Ann Arbor, MI — The holidays are filled with family, friends, food, gifts, and parties. It can be a magical time of the year where we give thanks for what we have and celebrate the passing of another year.  Unfortunately, this time of the year can take its toll on the environment.  More natural resources are used and large amounts of waste are produced.  This year, RRS is dedicated to help reduce the strain the season can have on our environment.  Follow these simple tips to make your holidays green:

1. Buy energy saving “LED” holiday lights.  These lights use 90% less energy and can save your family up to $50 on energy bill. 
2. Forgo store bought wrapping paper which isn’t always recyclable  and make your own wrapping paper.  Use old maps, the comic section of the newspaper, children’s art, a scarf, a decorative kitchen towel or bandana, or reusable bags to wrap your presents.  Use last year’s greeting cards as gift tags by cutting out the front images.
3. Send e-greetings instead of cards.  This not only saves on paper but saves you money on stamps.
4. If you choose to use store bought wrapping paper or want to send cards, look for items made with recycled content.
5. Buy durable and re-usable gifts from local vendors and consider buying gifts made from recycled content. Or, in lieu of material gifts, give the gift of your time or expertise.   Buy re-usable containers and gift baked goods.
6. Instead of buying a gift for everyone on your list, consider making a donation to their favorite organization.   This is a fantastic way to feel good during the holidays while you help those in need. 
7. When shopping for gifts or party food, bring your own cloth bag.  Bring cloth bags to parties to carry gifts home in.
8. Make your rooms festive with garland made from berries, popcorn and outdoor greens.
9. Buy a pesticide-free tree , a potted tree that can be planted outside, or a synthetic reusable tree.  Check into tree recycling in your community.
10. Use organic and local foods for your holiday feast.
11. Use washable dishes and silverware instead of disposable.

For more information, join RRS for a free webinar on December 4^th at 10:00 to learn more about these environmental friendly ideas and share some of your own.  RSVP to Liz Hughes at ehughes@recycle.com or call (734) 996-1361 ext. 0.

Tags: green holiday tips

Categories: Holidays Tags: green holiday tips