Living Green: Go green during the holidays

By: Lindsay Milbourne | SCNow
Published: December 11, 2009

All those holiday themed parties and gift giving this season has a big impact on the environment. The U.S. Environmental Agency estimates the average homeowner generates 25% more landfill waste during the Holidays than they do during the entire year. Here are some ways to green this holiday season.

Decorate your Christmas tree or the exterior of your home with LED lights. They use ninety percent less energy and they last longer than traditional decorative lights. Putting your lights on a timer can also help save energy and reduce your electric bill.

Last year, over 2.6 billion holiday cards were sent out in the U.S.. To help lower that number this year, email greeting cards instead of mailing them. if tradition is more your style, purchasing cards made of recycled paper is another eco-friendly option.

When it comes to gift wrapping, try saving boxes, gift bags and tissue from gifts you've received and reuse them. Or, you can make your own wrapping paper by reusing items around the house like newspaper, magazines, fabrics, or even plastic bags. Consolidating all items in one box or gift bag can also help.

Last but not least, try to keep traveling to a minimum. This can be done by planning ahead and opting for "one stop" shopping. Try getting all your errands done at a specific location like the mall. Or better yet, shop online instead of driving to the store. Taking public transportation is another environmentally friendly option. These are just some of the many, simple things you can to do help out the environment this holiday season.