Just to get you in the Holiday spirit, check out this clever little video:
Watch this hilarious video :: Oxfam America Unwrapped.
The video certainly utilizes a clever play on words, but even so, the less literal petition for all of us to “give a $%@#” is an ernest and urgent message. Rather than focusing on our “need” for that new ipod touch or for a new pair of jeans (even though the ones you have are in perfectly wearable condition), Oxfam America calls us to “give a $%@#” about someone other than us. Other than the Self. Other than Me. It’s oddly altruistic during a time of year when the TV and radio are telling us, “You deserve to treat yourself. You’ve worked hard, now take a load off! Buy that 37″ Plasma TV that allows you to see every bead of sweat on that professional ping-pong player’s nose!” Deserved indeed.
Christmas is one of the greatest times of the year. We can make sure it gets even better by keeping the true spirit of Caring and Giving ingrained in the Holiday Season.
How to Have a Green Christmas
1. Use LED Lights
They may be more expensive, but LED lights will last longer and they save 80% to 90% less power then the conventional mini light bulbs. Look at the following links to shop for LED Christmas decorations.
http://www.eartheasy.com/shop/lighting_holiday.html
2. Be a Creative Gift Giver
You have a list of people to shop for but do they all really need more stuff? Go online to http://www.oxfamamericaunwrapped.com/home.php and donate to a charity in their name. Give them a card with a picture of the object that they donated and to whom.
Also when you do go out to Christmas shop bring your own bags, instead of going out and coming back with plastic bags that you will throw away.
3. Use a real tree
Fake trees are petroleum based and are not biodegradable. Also often times fake trees are made in China and you are paying a majority for the shipping. So this year go out with the family, pick the perfect tree and bring it home to your greener Christmas.
4. Don’t Toss old Toys
This is the time of year when you go through your closet and your kids’ toy chests. Instead of throwing your lightly worn clothes or toys away donate them to a family who is not as fortunate. Take these items to a salvation army or check with your church to see if they are collecting toys for families in need.
After the holidays when you are throwing stuff away think instead about recycling. Visit this website to find a convenient drop off location for you.
Having a green Christmas does not mean you have to give up your family traditions, it just means being conscious of what you are doing and how you could live sustainably.
Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Refurbish, Recycle
