Eco-Friendly Ways to Enjoy the Holidays
Filed under: Solar Installation
During the holiday season, Americans create 25% more trash when compared to any other time of year. But it doesn’t have to be that way for your family this year! Here are several ways to celebrate in a more environmentally gentle way:
Monitor Energy Use
This almost goes without saying, but with all of the extra lights on around the house, being mindful is important. You can do this by installing efficient LED lights, and use a timer to save on power consumption, especially for your Holiday lights. If you are hosting, a simple sign by the front door could introduce the idea of conservation to your friends and family, and it could be an educational opportunity for kids.
Utilize Reusable Bags
Plastic is a resource-intensive product to manufacture, not to mention the detrimental effects it has on our environment when not properly disposed. By using reusable bags when you shop, you will reduce your contribution to pollution and waste. Keep reusable bags in the trunk so that they’re always with you!
Buy Local
Using local ingredients for your holiday meals is a great way to conserve resources and support the local economy. These items do not have to travel long distances to get to your market, making them more earth-friendly and often times fresher, healthier, and tastier. Items that are shipped from other places usually come with bulky packaging.
Avoid Plastic Packaging and Disposables
Product packaging can be difficult to avoid, but if you’re actively searching for ways to do so, it is possible. You can do this by buying foods in bulk, buying reusable straws (or avoiding straws all together), using metal utensils, etc. You can also reuse boxes for wrapping gifts or other purposes.
Carpool
During the holiday shopping season, try to consolidate several small trips into one larger outing or coordinate with your friends and neighbors to carpool to events.
Install a Solar Energy System
Consider going solar as a gift to yourself and your family, by getting off the lifetime payment plan with your utility company. By going green, you will save on electricity, as well as reduce your carbon footprint by decreasing your dependence on fossil fuel energy. Harnessing the sun’s energy will reduce pollution, save resources, and preserve mother earth for future generations.
If you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business, call on us for a free no obligation consultation with a team of industry professionals. We have been installing solar electric systems for 31 years and our team at New Day Solar are here to answer all of your solar questions honestly. We offer a 12 year solar loan through a credit union, with no out of pocket costs. To learn more, give us a call at: (855) 444-6329 or visit us online at: www.newdaysolar.com.
