Five Simple Ways to Go Greener This Holiday Season
It’s surprising to imagine that between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, Americans throw away a million extra tons of garbage each week. With holiday season around the corner, now is the perfect time to start thinking of some simple ways to enjoy a more environmentally-friendly celebration.
1. Go Greener with Gift-Buying:
Consider giving the gift of ‘experiences’ over packaged goods, offering potted plants and gardening bulbs, sharing homemade goodies, or offering battery-free toys for kids.
2. Get Creative with Wrapping Paper:
Even better than recyclable paper would be wrapping presents with reusable items like scarves and fabrics; repurposing junk mail, maps, posters, and old calendars; or giving gifts in reusable shopping bags.
3. Prevent Food Waste:
Share holiday leftovers with family, neighbors, and friends; store leftovers in the freezer; and explore fun and festive holiday leftover recipes.
4. Try LED Holiday Lights:
Since they use up to 95% less energy than traditional holiday bulbs, LED holiday lights are a great eco-friendly alternative that still brings the festive glow of the season.
5. Reuse and Recycle:
From recycling old electronics, to reusing paper and bows, and recycling the Christmas tree for composting, there are many ways to rethink recycling throughout the holidays.
As @zerowastechef Anne Marie Bonneau shares, “We don’t need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.”
ACI’s Employee Assistance Program provides a wide range of referrals to help reduce holiday stress and improve emotional well-being all season long. Learn more about your available benefits by contacting ACI at 800.932.0034 or eapinfo@acispecialtybenefits.com.