There is something special in the air this time of year. And it's not just the chill. A palpable sense of love, joy, and kindness. It is a time where we can get some rest, spend time with loved ones, make new friends, reminisce on beautiful memories, and help those that are in need.
This holiday season, we want to share some ways that you can join in the fun while also caring for others and our planet.
Donate, Donate, Donate!
With all of the food and presents during the holidays, we usually end up with some extra to spare. One way to share the love and care for the earth is by donating. Find some nearby shelters or charities to donate all of the extra things you know you won't use. You can donate toys, dry goods, toiletries, or even your time! It’s simple, easy, and can make a world of difference in someone’s life while also reducing waste.
Keep the fam busy!
Winter Break means the family is home together.....all the time. Make the most of the time by doing activities together. Instead of using up energy on devices, you can make arts and crafts with non recyclable items. Some cool ideas are snowflakes with disposable cutlery, planting/propagating little plants with plastic cups or containers, or creating decorations with plastic hangers! You can even use little cups and containers for craft storage! This will keep the family occupied, get the creative juices flowing, reduce energy use, while also making use of items that would have ended up in the landfill. It’s a win-win situation all around!
Sustainable holiday parties!
It’s easy to generate waste during holiday parties, whether your guest count is 8 or 80. After all, the focus is on food, fun, and connection! However, there are simple ways we can reduce single use plastics at our parties. When possible, serve food in reusable dishware and offer reusable plates, cups, and cutlery for guests. If the party requires single use silverware, opt for compostable options made from paper, bamboo, or PolyLactic Acid (PLA). Compostable serveware is purchased online or in-store and is a planet friendly alternative to single use plastics during holiday parties. Remember to offer a compost bin so guests can compost their food waste! Compost collected can be added to your garden, picked up by a subscription service, or collected curbside by your local neighborhood waste hauler.
Some other general sustainability tips are to use non recyclable items to make presents, opt for gift bags so they can be reused, or use reusable fabric bags! There are endless possibilities. It just takes a little bit of creativity, effort, and lots of love!! Let make this season green!
Happy Holidays!
-- Arbella Pera and Charmaine John
Additional Resources:
Toys Donation Program: Toys For Tots, U.S. Marine Corps
Coat Donation Program: One Warm Coat
Plastic Cup Christmas Bells: DIY Christmas Bells
Plastic Spoon Christmas Trees: DIY Christmas Tree
Old Christmas Lights Craft: Upcycled Light Bulb Garland
Food Scrap Drop off: City of Chicago
Subscription Compost Service: Collective Resource Compost Cooperative
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