Tips for a Greener Christmas

By: Sarah Holvik, B.Sc. Nutritional Science
 
So often, the holidays are over-focused on materialism and do not address the non-material, but more important aspects of the season.  Here are some great and creative ways to add to your enjoyment of the holiday season, while keeping in mind the importance of the little things in life.  And, this approach to the holidays also brings about the added bonus of being very green on the environmental scale.  Think of it as a Christmas present for the Earth.. it gives us so much throughout the year, it is only natural that we should return the favor during the holidays.
 
 1. If you're talented in the kitchen the possibilities are endless. You could make jams, jellies, chutneys, biscotti or flavoured vinegars and oils as gifts.   Use spices such as peppermint, ginger, nutmeg and cloves to add some holiday spice, not to mention many health benefits.  Glass jars are always great for packaging, plus they add an extension to the gift that can be reused again and again, which is very green indeed. 
 
 2. Resist the urge to tear your present out of its wrapping as soon as you can.  By opening your present carefully, you may be able to reuse holiday gift wrap and material bags.  You can also reuse boxes and shipping materials like bubble wrap next season.
 
 3. Give gifts that are a special experience and don’t have to be wrapped at all, such as ski passes, a dinner for two at a local restaurant or a weekend getaway.  This kind of outing can be very refreshing and allow you and your loved ones to take a break from the daily routines and appreciate each other's company.  Try to incorporate activity and healthy foods into your plans, for example go snowshoeing in the mountains and then go for a great dinner at an organic restaurant.
 
4. Get a tree that can be planted after the holidays and remember to recycle your fresh tree after Christmas.
 
5. Make your own natural decorations, like paper chains orstrings of popcorn. Involve the whole family by bringing in the natural elements such as pine cones, berries, twigs which can be composted or returned to nature when they’re no longer needed.
 
6. Make your own healthy holiday snacks, for example honey roasted walnuts which contain healthy omega-3 fats, dried cranberry and oat bars for healthy digestion and plenty of fruits and vegetables in place of overly sugary treats.  Remember to keep your water intake up as well, as this will help to curb your cravings for those holiday sweets.
 
7. Use cloth napkins when serving appetizers and setting the dinner table. They are rich and versatile.
 
8. Light candles and start a fire to set the holiday mood for the festivities.  You’ll save energy and the extra body heat generated by your guests will warm the room nicely.  Dimmer switches are also a great way to set the mood while saving energy.
 
9.For groups, instead of trading gifts, consider going out for a meal together or hosting a potluck. The time spent together will be memorable and in the spirit of the season.
 
10. When shopping, remember to take your reusable shopping bags with you.
 
By keeping these steps in mind, you will be able to enjoy the holidays with your loved ones while keeping your budget and your carbon footprint in check. 
 
Green is the prime color of the world, and that from which its loveliness arises.
             - Pedro Calderon de la Barca (1600-1681)
 
Vancouver Nutritionist Sarah Holvik is the owner of nutrition consulting company Manna Health Group. She welcomes questions at sarah@activelivingprogram.com.