PITCH-IN CANADA
 Resource Centre

The Green Shopper Program
"Green" Ideas for Gifts, Special Occasions - Anytime!

Decorating and Entertaining
The "Green" Way!

When decorating for holiday seasons be sure to keep in mind the amount of energy you are using, and the amount of waste you will be creating after the holidays. Choose lights that are energy efficient, and decorations that can be reused, recycled, composted or eaten!

PRINT AND CUT OUT THE CHARTS BELOW AND HANG THEM ON YOUR FRIDGE OR INSIDE ONE OF YOUR KITCHEN CUPBOARDS!

Decorating

Keep Light Simple and don't keep them on at night. Use automatic timers for all lights and heating (save energy and money!)
 Make traditional popcorn garlands, cranberry strings, and orange/clove pornanders
Use holly and cedar branches for garlands around your house instead of buying artificial garlands. Use small discarded toys or baked cookies to hang on the tree. Use home-made air fresheners: boil cinnamon, cloves and other spices in water; place small bowls of baking soda around the house and in the Refrigerator; set out a saucer of vinegar.
Tie old scarves and ribbons to branches on Christmas trees or wreaths
 Grow or buy plants and herbs that will sweeten the air.
 Make your own candles by melting down and remolding used ones.
Use washable tablecloths and napkins.
 Make your own window decorations instead of buying commercial sprays or cutouts.
 Buy a live Christmas tree and replant it after the holidays.

Entertaining
Think "ENVIRONMENT" when planning get-togethers:

Here are some pointers:

1. Simplify events to cut down on the quantity and variety of menu items and therefore avoid food and packaging waste. 2. Plan your menu around local, seasonally available fruits, vegetables, seafood, etc... (This will support local food producers and cut down on pollution from transporting food items over long distances). 3. Buy foods in reusable or returnable containers and in bulk to avoid excess packaging.
4. Throw a holiday party for friends in lieu of gifts. Example: Christmas carolling or ice skating parties. 5. Send invitations by phone or e-mail instead of mailing cards. 6. Opt for reusable tablecloths, napkins, plates, cutlery, etc... to avoid single use disposables.
7. Make edible or reusable party favours such as cookies or tree ornaments. 8. Plan environmental themes for your games and parties (charades, Pictionary and Scrabble). 9. Recycle and compost your waste after entertaining.

For other "Green" Ideas for Gifts, Special Occasions - Anytime click here.

For information about The Green Shopper Program click here.

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