Last Minute Ideas for a Green Christmas

While Christmas is only a day away, there are still many things that likely need to be put in order. For those of you who have caught the Christmas spirit, you might be thinking of things in terms of Santa's elves, who are still working at wrapping, stuffing stockings, and decorating the North Pole. Have no fear, however, because the Green Connoisseur is here to help you navigate your way through the world of green festivities. Wrapping Paper Wrapping paper is a beautiful way to be festive and to show the receiver that you care enough to go over the top with ribbons and bows. There are great green ways to show you care, however, other than coating a box in Santa and his reindeer. When it comes to wrapping paper, recycling the used wrapping is a first step towards sustainability. Saving this year’s paper and reusing it for next year is an even greener way. Just tell your loved ones to be careful as they unwrap and collect the paper once the gift has emerged. Another great idea is to use colorful newspapers or magazines that were headed for the recycling bin and choosing images and articles that speak towards the gift recipient. While it may not be store bought, a movie review starring a favorite actor wrapped around a special gift would really show that you care. If you have kids, why not let them decorate with crayons or markets using paper grocery bags as the base. Or, to be truly sustainable, try something completely reusable such as a bandanna or old shirts. Decorations Ribbons for gifts or for a wreath, and ornaments for a tree or for around the house, can all have a green twist. For ribbons, think about using the old tape from a video or cassette. They curl just like traditional ribbon using scissors! Or for the special gift, try decorating with broken shoelaces, old buttons, tape measures, or even broken Christmas lights to make a gift look truly original. If you have Christmas tree lights that still work, try stuffing them into an empty wine bottle for a festive centerpiece. Better yet, choose LED Christmas lights that use 80-90% less energy for all of your lighting needs. For tinsel to decorate a tree, think about using aluminum cans and cutting them in a spiral to loop around or across a tree, wreath, or anywhere else around the house. Just be careful with your fingers and be sure to recycle the cans again after the holidays. So, Merry Christmas Eve from the Green Connoisseur for those of you who celebrate the holiday, and remember that no matter the occasion, there is an eco-conscious way to celebrate in luxury! Image Credit: QPSU, Cliquee, Country Living, Ticklymoo, Wit and Whistle, Daily Danny

Tips to Minimize Your Thanksgiving Waste

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Green Connoisseur!  As you're preparing to settle down to your holiday feast and spend time with family and friends, consider a few tips to make your Thanksgiving more eco-friendly and minimize your household's impact on the planet.

• Break out the china: Resist the urge to use disposable plates and utensils this year.  Not only will real tableware and cloth napkins improve the ambience of your gathering, they will drastically reduce the amount of garbage your feast generates.  
• Turn down the lights: Save electricity and continue setting the festive mood with candlelight dining.  Set the table with soy candles rather than overhead lighting.  Instead of football games and holiday parades, gather up the board games to keep everyone occupied until mealtime.
• Recycle and compost: Scraps and containers that must be thrown away can get new use in the recycle and compost bins.  Other unused food scraps can feed your local wildlife.  Search for organizations in your community that can reuse excess grease and oils if your using a fryer this year.
• Make the most of leftovers: Even with careful planning, you will probably have an abundance of food left over after everyone has their fill.  Make arrangements with local shelters to get rid of anything that won't be eaten by your family; pack up the rest in reusable containers and take advantage of some creative Thanksgiving leftover recipes.

What are you doing to minimize the impact of your holiday festivities this year?  Remember to share your ideas in the comments and have a wonderful, happy Thanksgiving!

Image via riptheskull