Green Fridays

By Beth Egan

A lot of the joy of the holiday season comes from giving wonderful gifts to family, friends, and those we wish to thank. As “Black Friday” is behind us, we hope you will put some thought into making the remaining Friday’s in December – December 11 and 18 – into “Green Fridays”! Changing elements of the gift or how it is wrapped can make a wonderful difference – reduce, reuse and recycle.

Wrapping

One way to turn a gift into a wonderful gift is to present it in a unique or beautiful way.

Reduce

Giving a gift in a box? Why not use a pretty ribbon to wrap the box. Add an embellishment on top or a fancy tag and voila! No need for wrapping paper.

Package items for the same person in one box or bag or package. A lot less wrapping paper will be used, and less gift tags as well.

Are you able to use part of the gift as the wrapping? How about using a dishtowel with ribbons at either end to wrap a kitchen-type gift. Maybe some PJ’s to wrap a few new books, or a stocking to wrap some holiday ornaments?

Reuse

Baskets, tins, containers and reusable gift bags can be very attractive. Paper gift bags and containers are available at most retailers. However fabric gift bags are as easy as making a pillowcase! Here is the link to learn how. Not up for sewing? There are many options available online. You can purchase reusable bags. We personally like the drawstring sling bags – and we have heard nothing but positive comments from the recipients!

Fold up this year’s tissue paper and ribbon and store in a bin or tote bag. This can be used all year long – to top gift bags, as the wrapping paper, for craft projects or for next year’s boxes.

Why not invest in some festive cloth napkins to use at your holiday gatherings. While you are at it, purchase some for everyday use as well! This cuts back on the cost and waste of paper napkins.

Reusable snack bags and lunch bags are great gifts. There are many varieties available online. It cuts down on bulky containers (save those for the softer foods) and cuts way down on plastic sandwich bag use. The styles are fun and easy to clean!

Recycle

Save this year’s holiday cards. They can be used to create unique gift tags next year!

Recycle the wrapping paper, tissue paper and cardboard that comes in to the house. Local churches and schools collect paper as a fundraiser, look for the yellow recycle bins in their parking lots – perhaps your city even collects it?

Recycle all of the cans and bottles that will be used in your celebrations and cooking as well!

Happy Holidays!
Beth Egan

Beth Egan is a mother of 2 and a grandmother of 4. As a former teacher, Beth enjoys educating others on the importance of living green and removing the toxins from your home and the environment. She does this through articles, guest blogging, volunteering for the Healthy Child Healthy World Organization and her business with Shaklee. As a supporter of the Healthy Child Healthy World organization Beth will be posting articles frequently to this blog to alert you to current news on this topic and give ideas and information about making changes that will benefit all of us but most importantly the future, Our Children.

What steps are you taking to help reduce the amount of waste this holiday? Please leave a comment on this post to share your tips and tricks!