1.) The Christmas Tree:
When it comes to Christmas trees you have two main options - natural or
artificial. If you choose to purchase a natural Christmas tree this season,
it's suggested that you buy yours at one of those seasonal Christmas tree lots
found in a parking lot near you. Seasonal Christmas tree lots tend to sell
trees grown on tree farms, which means forests aren't unnecessarily cut down.
While tree farms do use pesticides to control insects and other pests, they are
used judiciously, for the most part. Natural trees can also be recycled and
turned into mulch when the season is over.
As far as artificial trees go; most are made from petroleum-based products,
which take centuries to decompose. At the same time, a family using an
artificial tree year after year saves on fuel, compared to a family that drives
to the tree farm or a tree lot every year. In the end, it comes down to
personal preference and affordability.
2.) The Christmas Lights:
Lighting the tree is always the best part, if you ask me. It doesn't
quite feel like Christmas until you have those twinkly lights up on all the
branches. When lighting your tree this year, consider purchasing some
eco-friendly LED Christmas lights. LED Christmas lights are a green alternative to traditional
Christmas lights, available in all of the same colors. LEDs (Light Emitting
Diodes) were first introduced in 2001 and incorporate computer chip technology
previously just used to light smaller electronic devices like calculators and watches. LEDs are 90 percent more efficient than
traditional string lights and are cool burning, so you won't burn your fingers
when touching them! LEDs also last about 10 times longer than traditional
bulbs.
3.) Trimming The Tree:
Decorating the Christmas tree is an activity that's fun for the entire
family. There are plenty of "green" Christmas decorations that
you and your family can scrape together. Making your own decorations is a great
way to spend more quality time with the family, while getting the house ready
for the holidays. Stringing together some garlands made out of candies,
popcorn, nuts and dried fruit is a centuries-old practice and so easy to do!
Homemade ornaments made out of eco-friendly clays, decorated with non-toxic,
eco-friendly paints will let your kids exercise their creativity while giving
your tree a touch more personality. If you want to be especially crafty, use recycled newspapers, non-toxic glue or flour and make your own paper Mache
ornaments. Not only will this Christmas be a "greener" one, but it will also
get your family to spend even more quality time together!
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