Celebrate the Environment: Go Green This Holiday Season without Going in the Red

Washington, D.C. - You can help others this holiday season without breaking your budget. From planning your holiday meals so there aren’t excess leftovers to donating unwanted electronics to local charities, there are many ways you can save money and protect the environment.

The holidays present opportunities to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle products instead of disposing of them. Here are a few ways that you can practice the three “R’s” to make this a green holiday season:

* Share the good tidings: Make room for new gadgets by donating your unwanted electronics. Used electronics that are still operating can be given to community groups, local schools, or nonprofit organizations. Some donations may qualify for a tax deduction.
* Shop smart: Carry a reusable tote when out shopping. Look for gifts made with recycled material and that have less packaging. Buy green electronic products.
* Look for opportunities to extend the life of old items: Why spring for a new family computer when you can upgrade your existing one? Borrow or rent certain party goods instead of purchasing new ones. If you are preparing for the upcoming digital TV transition, extend the life of your current TV by purchasing a converter box.


To see how others are being green and to let us know what you’re doing this holiday season: http://blog.epa.gov/blog/2008/11/26/more-holiday-cheer-less-holiday-waste/

Tips on reducing holiday waste: http://epa.gov/osw/wycd/funfacts/winter.htm

For a list of resources to help you donate or recycle your electronics: http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm