Five Tips for an Eco-Friendly Holiday
Published on
December 16, 2016 at 10:56:00 AM PST December 16, 2016 at 10:56:00 AM PSTth, December 16, 2016 at 10:56:00 AM PST
Let's face it, the holidays can be overwhelming. With all the chatter, it's easy to lose sight of some important issues such as making sustainable and eco-friendly choices. We've come up with a few ways you can cut back and conserve while celebrating in style.
Never Leave the House Without...
Water bottle. Bags. Coffee mug. Three things you use every day. Switching to the reusable versions is the easiest way to reduce your carbon footprint in minutes. Make an effort to find the loveliest, longest-lasting version of each item and it won't be a chore to tote them around. We happen to think Urban Market Bags are a great way to start this collection.
Think Globally Act Locally
When preparing your holiday dishes, instead of tasteless out-of-season tomatoes from down south, opt for a farm-fresh persimmon and make a winter salad. If everyone on your list has been exceptionally good, consider gifting something handmade from a local artisan.
Look in your Closet, Again
The clothing industry is the second largest polluter in the world (second only to oil!). Be kind to the planet and wear items you already own. Dress up your go-to basics with a fun pair of shoes or a fancy necklace, visit a tailor and alter that outfit you love but doesn't quite fit, or take items you don't want to a consignment shop and browse new looks while you're there. We love TheRealReal for second-hand shopping from the comfort of your own home.
Get Crafty
Stop spending out of obligation. A handmade gift is twice as nice, and supplies can be much cheaper than store-bought presents. We love this eucalyptus wall hanging for a little zen and relaxation or these gem-colored boozy candies for an extra sweet treat. When you've completed your masterpiece, wrap it all up in an Urban Market Bag and top with a bow.
Quality Over Quantity
Instead of bringing presents this year, make an effort to be present. Quality time with loved ones is the best gift you can give. No one will be concerned that there are fewer things to open when you're going head-to-head on trivia night or catching up over DIY craft cocktails (try an Easy Blender Eggnog or a Holiday Mule). Come January, your friends and family will have fewer things to clean out, and we will have reduced our consumption by a tiny (but meaningful) amount.
Never Leave the House Without...
Water bottle. Bags. Coffee mug. Three things you use every day. Switching to the reusable versions is the easiest way to reduce your carbon footprint in minutes. Make an effort to find the loveliest, longest-lasting version of each item and it won't be a chore to tote them around. We happen to think Urban Market Bags are a great way to start this collection.
Think Globally Act Locally
When preparing your holiday dishes, instead of tasteless out-of-season tomatoes from down south, opt for a farm-fresh persimmon and make a winter salad. If everyone on your list has been exceptionally good, consider gifting something handmade from a local artisan.
Look in your Closet, Again
The clothing industry is the second largest polluter in the world (second only to oil!). Be kind to the planet and wear items you already own. Dress up your go-to basics with a fun pair of shoes or a fancy necklace, visit a tailor and alter that outfit you love but doesn't quite fit, or take items you don't want to a consignment shop and browse new looks while you're there. We love TheRealReal for second-hand shopping from the comfort of your own home.
Get Crafty
Stop spending out of obligation. A handmade gift is twice as nice, and supplies can be much cheaper than store-bought presents. We love this eucalyptus wall hanging for a little zen and relaxation or these gem-colored boozy candies for an extra sweet treat. When you've completed your masterpiece, wrap it all up in an Urban Market Bag and top with a bow.
Quality Over Quantity
Instead of bringing presents this year, make an effort to be present. Quality time with loved ones is the best gift you can give. No one will be concerned that there are fewer things to open when you're going head-to-head on trivia night or catching up over DIY craft cocktails (try an Easy Blender Eggnog or a Holiday Mule). Come January, your friends and family will have fewer things to clean out, and we will have reduced our consumption by a tiny (but meaningful) amount.