Everyone finds ways to go green around the house, around the office, and even around town, but the holidays are often a time when thoughts of going green go right out the window. It does not have to be that way anymore with these great tips on how even holidays that are traditionally full of indulgence can bring the green out of us all.
The Big Meal
The first and most eco friendly way to enjoy a green Thanksgiving or Christmas is to think about the meal. Every year, friends and family gather around a table filled with more food than anyone can possibly eat in one sitting. Think about the energy in the kitchen that was used to cook that meal or even the non-environmentally friendly packaging each ingredient on the table was bought in. 
The first change goes to the big bird gracing the center of the table. You can go a few different routs this year to green up your table. The bird can be forgotten and a more organically friendly meal can be served. If this is just not an option, and for most it would not be, make sure the turkey bought was organically grown. This means the turkey was raised with out the use of antibiotics and hormones, which is healthier for you and your entire family.
Trimmings, trimmings
The next part of the meal is the endless amount of trimmings that take up all that room in your belly. Try and visit a farmers market, or smaller produce stores and buy as much locally grown as possible. This cuts down on purchasing things that had to be shipped, driven and boxed in for you to purchase. Locally grown is also more flavorful since it can be picked last minute and sold straight to you instead of being packaged weeks before you even get your fingers on it. Another thought is to buy locally made pies and side dishes so you don’t have to use all that energy from kitchen appliances to make them. Don’t forget to take along your own bag for your groceries instead of picking between paper and plastic.
Setting the Table
The table is another great way to go green for the holidays. Try using cloth napkins instead of paper so that they can be washed and reused instead of paper napkins that are thrown away and tossed in a landfill. If the thought of paper plates and plastic silverware is an attractive thought, think about buying reusable plates and silverware that are made of recycled products that won’t end up in a landfill as well. The best option is to lay out your own flatware, since you already own it and you know that won’t be tossed out and ended up in a landfill.
Decking the Halls
For decorations, try and purchase ones that can be packed away and used year after year. 
Remember to pick up a box made of recycled plastic to pack them in for just one more way you’re helping the environment (If your renting ZippGo moving boxes, let us know if your interested in buying one for storage). If you want a fresh approach to decorations, try going outside to collect leaves, pinecones and fresh flowers to lie around the house. This is the perfect time of year when color changes nature into a beautiful scene that your home would love to have displayed.
Odds and Ends
A few more interesting ideas you may not be aware of that can green up your holiday include donating your turkey fat, purchasing carbon credits and planting a tree. There is a Tucson based company that recycles the fat your turkey produces and turns it into biofuel. And if you have to drive or fly to see your family on this special holiday, think about purchasing carbon credits to make up for the drive or fly. Also, one of the best ways we can give thanks to our planet for giving us the great gifts that are placed on our table is to go out and plant a tree. You can turn it into a family tradition that the planet won’t soon forget.
