Liz: Think of Your Impact as You Deck the Halls

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12/04/09 - This week temperatures have dropped and snowflakes have begun to fly, signaling the transformation to the winter season.  The weather has also helped get me in the holiday spirit.  I’ve been enjoying all the stereotypical things about the holidays, putting up the Christmas tree and other home decorations, buying gifts for family and friends, and listening to classic carols.

The difference is this year I’m trying to think about the environmental impacts of my holiday activities.  This is also my first year as a homeowner, which means I have more places to decorate and even a yard to consider.  To decorate our house, I’ve tried to find some antique decorations.   While looking for treasures to reclaim as my own, I’ve even found a few great presents.  It does help that one of my mom and sister’s hobbies is antiquing.  

As for the yard and the Christmas tree, my fiancé and I have decided to replace our regular light bulbs with energy efficient LEDs.  These LEDs use about 80 to 90 percent less energy than regular holiday lights.  I’m hoping we won’t even notice the extra lighting usage on our energy bill.  

In an effort to keep our new house clutter free, we also needed to get rid of the old light strands.  The Recycling Association of Minnesota has setup curbside pickup and business drop off locations.  According to their website 15,000 pounds of old lights have been recycled this year.   At Snyder Drugs, one of the program sponsors, customers will receive a $5 off a $20 purchase coupon for bring in their old light strands.

On the gift front, I’ve thought of a few ways to reduce waste too.  Rather then asking for gift boxes at the stores, I’m going to try to make my own.  Green Upgrader has great instructions on how to make gift boxes for cereal boxes.   My other idea for the person who has everything is to make a charitable donation to a cause they care about.  It’s been a hard financial year for many organization and for those of us lucky enough to still be doing well, it’s a great way to give back.

In general this year, I’m trying to think responsibly as I indulge in the holiday season.  Every decision we make has an environmental impact, it’s up to each of us to think about that impact as we celebrate the holidays or go about our daily lives.  

Reader Comments (1) | Post a Comment

December 4, 2009 at 3:38 PM
Dylan VanAvery:
I heard they have solar activated LED lights too.  Not exactly an antique - but pretty cool nonethelss - you know, if your a green nerd.