By Bob Root, UUCF’s Act for Climate Today! (ACT!).
With the holiday season upon us we hope you have given some thought to how you can have an environmentally friendly holiday this year. There are lots of fun ways and, of course, many of them are described on the Internet and in the December ACTion of the Month. Here are a few ideas:
- Making gifts and wrapping by using recycled or salvaged materials. Various types of cloth can be used, and colorful designs are possible. Find used books and CDs at thrift stores or second-hand bookstores.
- Take advantage of your talent for hand-made crafts, or at least see how you are with it. The personal touch will make any effort appreciated. Goodies from the kitchen are especially appreciated this time of year. Or perhaps woodworking or metalworking is more your thing. At least consider buying locally made gifts, which support local artisans.
- Share your time, something that is priceless and irreplaceable. Offer to help with housework, drive someone to the airport or train station, share a concert or play, or simply promise a day of “undivided attention” for someone you need to catch up with.
- Check out this link to Fairfax County’s article Celebrate the Season with Climate-Friendly Gifts, which provides additional suggestions for making the holidays more environmentally friendly.
And have a joyful, greener, and friendly holiday season.