Celebrating the holidays in an energy-friendly way
- by Guest Contributor
- November 24, 2023
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TIPS FROM THE PENNSYLVANIA DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND NATURAL RESOURCES (DCNR)
The holidays are a time of love, warmth, compassion, joy and reflection. However, the holiday season also brings an increase in energy use and household waste. Each year, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day, household waste in the U.S. increases by more than 25 percent.
Let’s reflect on how we can all show some love to the world and use our resources wisely.
Image: Christmas decorations and presents, courtesy Britt Madera
It can be easier than you think to help cut down on our environmental impact and go green this holiday season:
Go homemade
Decorations, table center pieces, and gifts can all be made from reused or recycled materials. Use evergreen trimmings to make wreaths and collect pinecones and other materials to use in a fun craft. Popcorn, citrus, and other dried fruits can create colorful garlands that birds love as well.
Use a timer
Having your outdoor lights on a timer helps make sure you aren’t using more energy than you need, and that you don’t have lights on the entire night — which could be disorienting and negatively impact local wildlife.
Ditch the disposables
While washing dishes may be the last thing anyone wants to do after a big holiday meal, disposable plates and cutlery are a huge source of waste during the holidays. Use newspaper or fabric scraps to wrap gifts; and be sure to save the wrapping paper, bags, and boxes that you can re-use next year.
Pick the right tree
There are many options when picking a natural tree. Support a local tree farm which can help stabilize soil, protect water supplies, and provide refuge for wildlife. Buy a live root ball tree native to your area to enjoy indoors for the holidays and plant it in your yard in the spring.
ABOUT DCNR:
Established on July 1, 1995, the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) is charged with maintaining and protecting 121 state parks; managing 2.2 million acres of state forest land; providing information on the state’s ecological and geologic resources; and establishing community conservation partnerships with grants and technical assistance to benefit rivers, trails, greenways, local parks and recreation, regional heritage parks, open space, and natural areas. DCNR’s mission is to conserve and sustain Pennsylvania’s natural resources for present and future generations’ use and enjoyment. Learn more at DCNR.pa.gov.
