Artificial trees are made from PVC and just as bad for the environment.
Brianne
Approximately 30-35 million (million!) living Fir trees are cut down in the US alone every year. Talk about unnecessary waste. These trees help the environment by converting CO2 into oxygen but when they are cut down, used for a few weeks, and tossed, they release large amounts of stored CO2 into the atmosphere and your home. Now we’re not saying don’t have a tree (it is Christmas) but try one of these more eco-friendly alternatives.
- A potted tree is a great way to keep your tree all year long. You can buy it already potted and keep it outside then move it indoors and decorate for the holiday.
- Make an artwork Christmas tree to hang on the wall. Draw the tree and decorate with real lights and ornaments.
- Get creative and head out into the woods to collect fallen pinecones, branches, and more to create your own DIY Christmas tree.
- If you’re crafty, make a stuffed tree out of fabric … like a pillow.
- Grow your own in a pot. You’ll have fun watching it grow over the years.
Written by Greenista Girl Brianne
Photo by I Like Trampolines
It takes only one acre of growing Christmas trees to produce the daily oxygen needed to sustain 18 people.
Ride your bicycle to run your local errands. You can avoid CO2 emissions, all while getting a total body workout.
Greenista Girl Neha
Eco warriors, arm yourselves with reusable totes, bottles, and tableware and spread the word of recycling dos and don’ts … it’s Pollution Prevention Week. Pollution isn’t just in the air it lurks in every crevice of the environment. Remember to practice the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Every little bit does add up and no effort is too small. To get you started, the Greenista Girls came up with a list of easy tips to follow during Pollution Prevention Week … and for the rest of your life (hint, hint).
- Reuse bags and containers. Gift bags are great for re-gifting or wrapping packages and covering books.
- Try to create a new décor item out of something old you might have been ready to toss.
- Avoid unnecessary car trips and if you must, carpool instead. This is one of the most helpful things you can do to prevent pollution.
- Practice safe Take Out. Just say “no” to extra condiments, napkins, and plastic ware.
- Wash out plastic containers and glass jars you buy food in and use them as Tupperware.
- Paper or plastic? Neither! When grocery shopping, take your own reusable bag.
- Turn off your computer, monitor, lights and all electronics if you’re not using them.
- Do a double take. Save paper by making double sided copies.
- Only print when absolutely necessary.
- Minimize water use by purchasing efficient faucets and shower heads
- Make your own cleaning supplies. Baking soda and water can be used instead of ammonia-based, all-purpose cleaners.
- Go meat-free one night this week with veggies and yummy pasta.
Written by Greenista Girl Neha
Photos by Sacramento State
Kids may be at higher risk from air pollution than adults because their lungs and immune systems are still developing. Children also breathe deeper than adults so a larger dose of pollutants enters into their lungs.
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