Lessen Waste this Christmas

http://niurdi.org/
Lessen Waste this Christmas
Minimize Waste this Christmas


Christmas is responsible for more waste and consumption than any other holiday. North American's trash increases by 25 % over Christmas - which corresponds to 25 million extra tons of garbage going to the land fill. By recognizing the unbelievable waste that is produced the urgency to do something becomes apparent. A really helpful or environment friendly gift is a better environmental option. Here is a short list of ideas to influence you.

For the property owner - thermostat control that immediately turns the heat down in the evening. A low flow shower head attachment. A draft relaxing (put in front of doors to prevent drafts) and tubes of caulking or weather stripping. Dimmer switches or compact fluorescent bulbs. Hot water tank and hot water pipe insulation kits.
For the gardener - subscription to an organic gardening magazine or a membership to a seed organization. Bird, bat and butterfly homes, baths and feeders-- or the patterns to develop them. A composting worm bin or a membership with an environmental group.
Tickets to a performance, restaurant gift certificates or services such as lawn care, diaper, cleaning, music lessons, exercise or dance classes, tune-up or tire rotation services-- all support local business.
Dehydrated, canned or preserved foods make outstanding gifts. Frozen dishes are cherished by those that find cooking tasks cumbersome.
Brazil or cashew nuts as they promote a living tropical rainforest.
Books (i.e. Trash Talk).
A reusable coffee filter and whole organic coffee beans.
If you decide to buy electronics, consider those powered by solar or rechargeable batteries.
For holiday picture memories utilizing a digital cam and getting photos put on CD's minimizes chemicals, paper and cost. Selecting 36 exposure film rolls minimizes packaging and waste.
Consider a live tree. At the end of the season, donate it to individuals, the city, schools or parks. Plant it in your own lawn for privacy, shade or erosion control.