Happy Friday! Make sure to finish as much work as possible, so you don’t have to worry about it next week. Because next week is for worrying about more important things like flocks of visiting family and the perfect arrangement of lawn Santas.
With so much going on, who has time to think about the environment? Fret not, readers, because the City of Long Beach has prepared a handy-dandy guide to “greening” your holiday season. And they would know, having just been named the Top Government Green Fleet In North America.
So take a gander at the City’s list, below, and see how you can help “green” the holidays here in Long Beach.
1. Spread holiday cheer—Volunteer or Donate!
There are many ways to get involved from canned food drives to soup kitchens to donating blood. [Ed note: click here for a great volunteer opportunity!]
2. Green your holiday parties — Buy local, organic food
It’s not only healthier for you but also better for the environment. Visit one of Long Beach’s five farmers’ markets for your holiday meals.
3. Reduce wrapping paper waste
You can use newspaper, buy recycled paper or use a basket, tin or other reusable container.
4. Brighten your holidays — Use LED lights
LED lights last longer, use up to 90% less electricity, and are less of a fire hazard than conventional lights.
5. Green your tree
The greenest option is a living tree that you can plant after the holidays, but if you like the traditional, real tree, look for one grown close to home, and grown without fertilizers or chemicals. Remember to make Treecycling a holiday tradition. (More details at longbeach-recycles.org) If you like the convenience of a fake tree, look for American-made, which contain fewer toxins.
6. Buy green gifts
From organic cotton clothing to soy-based candles, there is a green gift for everyone. Or, instead of “stuff,” give homemade baked goods, movie tickets, a restaurant gift certificate or similar items that can be used and enjoyed.
7. Support local businesses
Shopping locally supports local business and reduces transportation-related pollution.
8. Carpool
Make your shopping trips more fun by carpooling with friends or family to save gas and reduce car pollution.
9. Use reusable bags
Some stores even give you a discount if you bring your own bag, and you’ll save the disposable bags from the landfill.
10. Recycle
Getting a new TV, cell phone, or computer this year? Find out how to properly dispose of your old one by visiting longbeach-recycles.org.
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor