During the holiday season, waste disposal increases 25 percent in the United States, causing an extra 5 billion pounds of waste to go into our landfills. If that weren’t shocking enough, toxic PVCs can be found in some children’s toys, especially if they are the plastic ones.
Vinyl chloride, the chemical used to make PVC, is a known human carcinogen. Additives, such as lead and cadmium, are sometimes added to PVC to keep it from breaking down; these additives can be particularly dangerous in children’s toys. PVC is also the least recycled plastic.
So you may be asking yourself, “Where do we go from here during the holidays?”
Good news! We can feel better about ourselves and our choices by choosing natural, eco-friendly products. We can also do a few things to encourage our families and friends to think green this holiday season by setting an example. Here are a few ideas on ways you can set that green example this year…
Don’t buy wrapping paper
Reuse old wrapping paper or put your gifts in reusable bags or boxes. Be creative — used scarves, magazines or calendars make great patchwork bags or collage wrapping paper. People love children’s artwork!
Decorate with natural materials
You can make beautiful holiday decorations with items found in nature: A bowl of evergreen boughs and fresh fruit; a basket filled with fallen branches, winter berries and pine cones; and seasonal plants like poinsettias make inexpensive holiday décor. Once the holidays are over, your decorations can be added to the compost pile.
Celebrating Hanukkah? Use soy-based candles
Soy candles are made from renewable resources and last twice as long as conventional paraffin candles. Beeswax candles are another health-friendly, planet-friendly option.
Send tree-free holiday cards
There are great on-line greeting card services out there and most are free to use.
