Green Christmas gift ideas

[RecycleMichael]

Here is some information from our Holiday issue...

We know that shopping and gifting can be the most rewarding and frustrating parts of the holiday season. This year, take the pressure off by going with a green theme for all the special someone's on your list.

Let's start with environmental gifts for the young ones. Some of my favorites are tools that are kid-powered. Wind up; shake or squeeze flashlights can be found in most stores and never needs batteries. Speaking of avoiding extra batteries (the average American goes through seventeen per year), battery chargers are very affordable and while the batteries cost more initially, the savings add up and the children learn responsibility to charge the batteries themselves. One electronic device that works better on rechargeable ones is a digital camera. There is no need to use chemicals for photos or even use paper to print them to share. My must be green gift for youth is a bicycle. If they already have one, think accessories like a basket or a bike bag that helps make the bike transportation and not just exercise and fun.

Our list for parents and earthlings over a couple of decades old include memory sticks for the computer, loaded with pictures of friends, family, and especially grandkids. They can be downloaded and shared again and again throughout the holidays. I also like giving fluorescent bulbs, especially if you also install them. They use around 30% of the electricity of regular bulbs which also helps the checkbook. One of the nicest gifts we got last year was a nice set of re-sealable glass serving/storage containers. Americans throw away as much as thirty percent of the food we buy and these work great for leftovers. They have sets that work equally well in the oven, the freezer and the fridge, meaning fewer dishes to wash as well. I also try to give live plants every year to my parents and siblings. They give a little touch of nature and beauty plus can be found at dozens of stores around town.

For the casual relationship like a co-worker, business associate or distant in-law, think gift card first. Giving a gift never used means extra waste and the card will allow them to get what they really want. Giving a tree is easy in Tulsa; Up with Trees plants a tree and sends a card to the recipient for only $25. You can also buy a live tree for the lawn and give the neighborhood and the planet a gift this year. Reusable aluminum water bottles are very trendy and eliminate the need for plastic bottles that put the word "fill" our landfills. Americans throw away 53 million water bottles a day. I like giving cloth napkin sets that lessen the need for paper towels and add a touch of elegance to any meal.

We want to make sure and mention some inexpensive gifts that could be found in almost any budget. Puzzles and jump ropes never need batteries and offer exercise for the brain and the body. Reusable plastic refill cups save you money every time you stop at the convenience store for a soda. Handmade cards just plain mean more and any gift that you can make is always a one-of-a-kind. A close relative of ours loves to give the gift of house-cleaning every year. She really enjoys dragging over her industrial vacuum and shows me a new safe cleaner she has learned to make herself every year. I have to say it is one of my favorite gifts and afterward we unwind and catch up on all the family gossip.

Every dollar you spend or avoid can be a help to your planet as well as your wallet. Giving green gifts can show that you are not just wishing them a happy holiday, but also a healthy planet. If you have any other great gift ideas, share them with us so we can share them with others. Reduce, reuse, recycle and rejoice!