Green Living Today

Holiday Gift Bags

Keeping it green during the Holidays.  Some of us may fall down on that as we get too busy to really be concerned about our Earth.

Here are just a few ideas to help.

I know that many people say “make the gift,” “make the decorations,” “use natural materials.”  And yes, I agree wholeheartedly.  However, some of us have a difficult time making that happen.  I’m sure I’m not the only non-crafter in the group and the prospect of making gifts and decorations is overwhelming.  So what to do?

The majority of my home decorations have been purchased.  But, I purchased some of them over 30 years ago.  And I’m still using them.  So I consider that recycling by reusing.  And, I would guess that almost everything I have and have toted around the country all these years was purchased half price at the After Christmas Sales.

I do buy gifts.  I consider how things are packaged and try to avoid too much of that, but let’s face it, sometimes you can’t avoid the packing.  I generally wrap my gifts in gift bags with tissue paper that I have used before (well, not exactly for 30 years! )  But I find the gift bags can easily be saved and reused.  Most people enjoy “reaching into the bag” rather than tearing open the paper and throwing it away.

I attempt to keep my gift shopping trips to a minimum, getting as much done as possible with one outing.  I also am a great proponent of online shopping.  That saves my automobile, my time, and avoids the mall crowds.

Extra baking and cooking goes on this time of year.  I am careful to recycle any and all containers and papers that are accepted by my recycler.  If I find something is not getting eaten, I put it in the freezer rather than throw it out.  It will certainly be enjoyed at a later date.

Christmas Cards can really be a problem.  The expense of the cards and the postage, the use of the paper, not knowing if the receiver will recycle it.  What to do?  I send a very few cards and then send out an e-mail to all my friends telling them I have donated the cost of cards and postage to my favorite charity.  And then I wish them all a Merry Christmas.  I know that is not as personal as some people like, but it does help to solve the problem.

These are just a few simple things – reminders – that we need to keep up the efforts no matter how busy and rushed we may be. This is also meant to relieve those not “into” making everything of the guilt they may feel from those who are “gung-ho” about it.  We each can do only the best that we can do at the moment.

Happy Recycling!

Related articles.

• Simple & Sustainable Holiday Gifts (momblognetwork.com)
• 5 great reusable gift bags (timesunion.com)
• How to have a green Christmas (ismckenzie.com)

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