12/3/09

Choose LED holiday lights when decorating the tree or around the house. LEDs (which stands for "light emitting diodes") last up to 20 years and use only one-tenth the energy of traditional Christmas lights. While they may cost a bit more, the energy and lifetime-use savings will more than pay for the investment. Added bonus: LED lights do not get warm, which makes them a safer alternative for children, since they're cool to the touch.

12/2/09

If you're looking to send out holiday cards this season, consider two options. One, look for cards made from the highest possible post-consumer recycled paper percentage you can find; it's made from old paper that you and I put out for recycling. Better yet, do what I do and visit local thrift shops and flea markets for vintage holiday cards. Not only are they more charming and special, they're usually cheaper, too.

12/1/09

If you're debating between a live or fake Christmas tree, here's the green winner: live. Fake trees are manufactured overseas (translation: fuel costs) and are made from non-renewable, non-biodegradable materials. When thrown away, they clog our landfills. A live tree is usually grown on land unsuitable for farming anyway, but it still contributes oxygen to the atmosphere. Trees are also recyclable and most communities have such programs in place.