Nine tips from NRG to make your holiday season more sustainable
Whether you are planning to a host a small, intimate celebration or a large family gathering, you can go green with these simple tips.
Decorate with LED lights
LED lights are at least 80% more energy efficient than traditional holiday lights and come in a variety of shapes and colors, so you won’t miss out on the holiday glow.
Skip the disposable dinnerware
Use reusable plates, glasses, and flatware instead of disposable ones that will end up in the landfill. Ask everyone to help load the dishwasher so cleanup is a breeze.
Make your own cards
Use stock paper, or even resume paper, to make a heartfelt card for your loved ones. Or you can skip the printed holiday cards for and send e-cards instead to reduce your carbon footprint.
Get creative with gift wrapping
Instead of buying gift wrap, reuse gift bags or wrap your gifts with fabric or scarves. Use natural materials such as pine leaves, pine cones, and dried flowers for decoration in place of ribbon and bows.
Give the gift of experiences
Look for experiential gifts such as a museum membership, movie tickets, streaming subscription, or a pass to a state park, which can reduce your carbon footprint and can bring joy to the recipient.
Shop local
When shopping for gifts, choose local stores or small businesses that use sustainable methods. Look for products that have a story, so the gift-giving process also becomes an opportunity to connect with your region.
Eat local
Purchase your holiday meal ingredients from local farms and stores. By doing so, you can support local businesses and decrease your carbon footprint.
Choose plant-based options
Serve side dishes that feature vegetables and fruits that require little or no cooking to decrease your energy usage and make your holiday meal more sustainable.
Purchase carbon offsets
Using energy during the holiday season is unavoidable. Consider offsetting your holiday energy use from cooking, lighting, and travel with carbon offsets. Click here to learn more.
