Dreaming of an Ecoliday

By: Nancy Astrid Lindo

Nancy Astrid Lindo, principal of Astrid Design Studio, is an Interior Designer and Sustainability Consultant. Having been formally trained as a designer she also holds a Certification in Green Building and Permaculture, as well as, having received her LEED accreditation in 2006.

Its that time of the year when we have the opportunity to gather with our loved ones to celebrate the holidays, in anticipation of a new year ahead of us.

With the many sparkles and glitter that abound, during this holiday season, let us remember to get creative and resourceful as it is not about the material but rather about the essence. From Thanksgiving through New Years, Americans discard an additional 25% more waste – creating an additional 5 million tons of trash.

Let us me make a change this year! Here are some simple holiday tips to bring holiday cheer back into the season:

Holiday gifts

Although it may appear as though celebrating this time of year would not be complete without a gift exchange, it is a perfect opportunity to explore beyond going to the mall.

Think of how you can support your local community by purchasing your gifts from the many holiday marts that sprout in cities all over the country, bringing together local craftsmen and artists to sell their goods. These marts usually sell goods that are usually fair-trade, made sustainably and/or locally. If your town does not have any, check out Global Exchange’s fair-trade store.

Purchasing gifts that are useful and durable will leave a longer lasting memory than something that is disposable or wasteful. A beautiful non-conventional approach is purchasing alternate gifts, such as micro loans, such as from Kiva, or purchasing a membership from your favorite non-profit or cause.

You can also get really creative and make your own gifts! Nothing has more personal detail than a homemade gift or card and a fun opportunity to get your creative juices flowing! Also, keep in mind that wrapping paper comes from trees so try re-using old newspapers, fun paper or even old fabric, which gives gifts such a regal look. Who says being green can’t be sophisticated – it is the new elegance!
Remember, it is the essence that lies in the gesture and not in the gift.

Trees / Ornaments / Candles

Decorating is one of the most festive parts of the season, yet, it is a wonderful opportunity to be aware of not purchasing items that may be toxic and endanger you and your loved ones.

What many people do not know is that Christmas trees (or Hanukah bush) usually take about 7 – 10 years to grow. Many time the tress are specifically cultivated for this purpose and are usually brought from Canada. These trees are usually laden in pesticides and fertilizers, which can contaminate your indoor air quality.

Thinking of a plastic tree? Yes, you can re-use it year after year, but it is made of plastic. The plastic is heated by the lights and also can off gas.

Still want a tree?

Opt for the potted kind. You can keep him for years to come and end up saving a lot of money in the long term. Don’t want to keep it year round? Consider planting it! I saw a Christmas tree that was planted at the turn of the century and it was huge! Imagine being able to leave that gift behind to your neighborhood!

Another excellent option for those craving that winter scent at home, find a local organic tree farm. Once the holidays have passed, don’t just set your tree at the curb and add the holiday tree cemetery, instead, take it to your local park where local municipalities offer tree-take-back programs that mill the tree into mulch for your park!

Wanting to decorate with candles and engage in that romantic winter feel? Always purchase soy or bees-wax candles. Conventional candles are made of a petroleum base and sometimes with a lead wick – completely contaminating your indoor air quality. Want scented candles? Always look for the ones that are made with 100% essential oils – do not purchase artificially scented candles with fragrance.

Food

This time of the year people are known to leave their diets at the waste side (literally) and simply stuff themselves. Food is sacred and opting for gluttony may not be the healthiest choice. Instead of making extra food, consider donating to your local food bank and help feed an individual or a family.

When planning your menu try to source from your farmers market and choose ingredients that are conducive to this growing season, your region and are organically available.

Community Services

This is also a time to reflect on the vibrancy of life we have all around us, consider giving back to the less fortunate. There are many ways to get involved in your local community and reach to those that may be alone or unable to afford a meal, there is nothing like volunteering for a soup kitchen or a shelter. Don’t have the time? Most non-profits depend on the generous donations of donors. Giving doesn’t need to be for the wealthy, instead donations of all amounts are gladly accepted and appreciated.

Happy and safe holidays – may peace reign in hearts and in your homes!