The City of Long Beach Office of Sustainability is encouraging residents this holiday season to participate in this year’s “Green Holiday.” A recent City press release notes that Americans throw away 25 percent more trash between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, which amounts to about 1.2 million extra tons per week.
The Office of Sustainability was created to facilitate the process of developing and implementing model sustainability programs for the City of Long Beach. It provides leadership and supports practical solutions to improve the environmental, social and economic health of Long Beach.
Long Beach residents are encouraged to participate in this year’s “Green Holiday” tradition by considering a few recommendations to make this season a little greener:
– Support local businesses by visiting farmers markets and shopping locally to reduce transport related pollution. More information about farmers markets is available at www.localharvest.org
– “Treecycle” by dropping off your tree at several sites throughout the City of Long Beach from December 26 to January 9. For more information, visit www.longbeach-recycles.org
– Recycle — everything from your tree after the holidays to your old cell phones. Locations and events are available at www.longbeach-recycles.org
– Save time, money, and stress by carpooling or using public transportation, including the Passport or Metro. Visit www.lbtransit.com for maps and schedules.
– Reduce paper waste by making your own wrapping paper—use newspaper, children’s artwork, etc.
– Southern California Edison has many programs that allow you to save on your energy bill during the winter holidays and year round. Visit www.sce.com for more information.
– Volunteer or donate to the community — from food banks to blood donation. Visit www.sustainablelb.com for a list of organizations where you can help
Click here for more information on the Office of Sustainability.