Christmas is all about giving, spending time with family, and spreading cheer. Let’s try incorporating sustainability in your Christmas list and go green for the holidays!
Buy less
Holiday gifts can provide a practical need, the need to buy something new every year. But keep in mind that although many new gifts are generally gestures of kindness or thoughtfulness, you can still give more while spending less money this year.
Sustainable giving
Not all gifts need to be store-bought. Although it may be a habit to buy a brand new gift at your local department store or online, there are many ways that you can give a thoughtful present and go green for the holidays. Consider a DIY gift or maybe something special to you that you think might be special to someone else. There are so many options to choose from that are just as thoughtful as a store-bought gift.
Shorten your list to simplify your gift-giving
Many people get stressed this time of year with the long lists of gifts for each person during the ‘gift-go-around’ season. It is important, as said previously, to remember that gifts are thoughtful gestures, not shiny ones. Consider doing a Secret Santa this year! This way, you can shorten your list to just one person, not a dozen, and focus on really making your gift special for them.
Think green and buy smart
For example, locally made gifts from marketplaces and local artists. Local craft fairs and artisan shops are a good way to start. This way, you can find gifts made by anyone with a special skill from all over the world. This can save you the cost of travel and reduce gas emissions that are huge contributors to global warming. Keep in mind as well that you are also helping to support local artists and their businesses. What’s better than a gift that is unique to give to your loved one and going green for the holidays in the process?!
Consider donating your old toys or clothing
If you would like to help teach your children the spirit of giving during the holidays, ask them to go through their toys and decide which ones they do not play with anymore and donate them to a homeless shelter/domestic violence shelter or your local Salvation Army or Goodwill. This way, your children can learn about the importance of giving back to other children and families and spread some Christmas cheer to those who may be less fortunate this year.
Go on an outing with the family
The best gift during the holidays is spending precious time with your family. Consider going on an outdoor excursion rather than giving gifts this season. Presents do not have to be an object; one of the best gifts of all is having a family to enjoy it with.
Care for your fabrics sustainably
When we get ready for Christmas, we usually think about what sweater we are going to wear, what tablecloth we will use for dinner, and what type of stockings will be hung up. But what most do not consider is the importance of sustainability during the holidays. When we pull out our decorations, they may be dusty or have that storage odor. No one wants smelly décor, stained dresses, or anything to make the holidays less than perfect. Your local GreenEarth cleaner can save your traditions by renewing all of your favorite textiles. Using our environmentally non-toxic GreenEarth Cleaning system, they can properly clean your Christmas items and clothing without any harsh chemicals. Find the GreenEarth cleaner nearest you on our store locator.
There are many ways to be sustainable and thoughtful. Traditions can change, which is okay! Sometimes we outgrow old traditions, create new ones, and with that, we can create some new memories that will last a lifetime. GreenEarth Cleaning is all about sustainability and protecting the environment. We can spread Christmas cheer by minimizing our carbon footprint. Open your hearts this season, and enjoy the holidays with your family all the while protecting our planet.