I'm Dreaming of an Eco-Friendly Christmas

 Reduce your carbon footprint, one Christmas at a time

Buy a real tree Although having a plastic tree seems like a great idea to be eco-friendly, they're actually terrible for the environment. You can't recycle them, they aren't biodegradable, and they eventually end up in a landfill. Buy a real tree and cut it into several pieces or grind it up and plant it in the ground. Also, consider planting a new tree for the following year to cut down yourself. Plus, real trees are more enjoyable (they smell better and are the most real thing about having a Christmas in California).

Reuse wrapping paper and find recycled paper Try using cloth for wrapping paper, yarn as ribbon, and storage containers or bags from previous gifts. Not only does the yarn and cloth look vintage, it's original and makes it appear as if more time was spent on the gift. If you use paper, find recycled paper and be sure to recycle all of it when you're done. 

Buy fair trade gifts Find gifts that are of fair trade (chocolate, coffee), which many online companies offer, as well as farmer's markets. Also, buy organic soy candles, or clothing that is made from organic cotton, hemp or bamboo. Handmade gifts are also offered at health food stores and farmer's markets where you can find great soaps and household products that will be safe for your gift recipient, and will also be safe for the Earth. One more thing, don't be afraid to regift from previous years! It might be considered tacky, but it's worth saving the world for.  

Use real decorations Poinsettias, mistletoe, and pine cones are easy to find and can be used to decorate the front yard or inside the home.  Instead of buying a plastic wreath, make one out of your yard's trimmings and use ribbon and pine cones you already have to decorate it. Mainly avoid purchasing anything that's plastic and non-recyclable. Also, using LED lights will greatly minimize the energy used. 

Take advantage of eCards Save yourself time, money and paper by sending cards via the Internet. This is a fun alternative and will save you a bundle on stamps, envelopes, and cards. Recycle any cards that you receive in the mail, or save them so that you can reuse the pictures to make your own cards in the future. 

Cook with organic products For all of the cookies and treats you create for the season, buy organic products, and avoid buying food with packaging that is bad for the envionment (styrofoam and plastic). 

Katie Cervantes

Live OC Magazine

www.LIVEOCMAG.com