Going Green for the Holidays

We'll start the holiday season on Going Green for the Holidays with this from the EPA:

You can help others this holiday season without breaking your budget. From planning your holiday meals so there aren’t excess leftovers to donating unwanted electronics to local charities, there are many ways you can save money and protect the environment.

The holidays present opportunities to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle
products instead of disposing of them. Here are a few ways that you can practice
the three “R’s” to make this a green holiday season:

•Share the good tidings: Make room for new gadgets by donating your unwanted
electronics. Used electronics that are still operating can be given to community
groups, local schools, or nonprofit organizations. Some donations may qualify for a
tax deduction.
•Shop smart: Carry a reusable tote when out shopping. Look for gifts made with
recycled material and that have less packaging. Buy green electronic products.
•Look for opportunities to extend the life of old items: Why spring for a new
family computer when you can upgrade your existing one? Borrow or rent certain
party goods instead of purchasing new ones. If you are preparing for the upcoming
digital TV transition, extend the life of your current TV by purchasing a converter
box.

To see how others are being green and to let us know what you’re doing this holiday
season: http://blog.epa.gov/blog/2008/11/26/more-holiday-cheer-less-holiday-waste/

Tips on reducing holiday waste: http://epa.gov/osw/wycd/funfacts/winter.htm

For a list of resources to help you donate or recycle your electronics:
http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm