I remember as a child Christmas being primarily about presents. I wondered what I would get. I tried to guess what a present was by the shape of the packaging. Sometimes I would get really sneaky and try to unwrap just a little of the gift and then put it back before being caught. But then in a flash, it was time to open presents - and there was a hurricane of paper everywhere, which typically went in two trash bags. So imagine roughly two trash bags full of paper for every household in America. That's a tremendous amount of waste. Not exactly an eco-friendly way to celebrate.
So how can we be greener this Christmas? I believe it takes thinking about all the ways you'll celebrate and considering forms with the least impact. If you are going to send cards, try to find recycled cards or even send e-cards. Use gift bags instead of boxes and wrapping paper, and don't be too shy to ask for the bag back - or suggest that the person use it again (I had a party the other night, and I'm going to reuse all the bags I got!).
Of course, decorating a Christmas tree with impressive ornaments is usually key for the season. Last year I was given an ornament from Aurora Glass. Their ornaments are 100% recycled glass and all the profits from their sales go to "assist homeless and low-income people through emergency services, housing, jobs, training, and other charitable endeavors" through the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Lane County, Oregon. I highly recommend them and can say honestly that the ornament I was given is my favorite one on the tree. You can see for yourself at www.auroraglass.org
Merry Christmas!
22 December 2008
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