2. Buy Organic
I don't think we can be reminded enough how important this is, it means less fuel used, fresher food and more local economic stimulation. The World Watch Institute estimates that a surprising 17% of the world's fossil fuel is consumed from fertilizing and transporting food. Use these handy resources found at My Inspiration Lounge - Go Green: Eat Well Guide and LocalHarvest, for finding local and organic turkeys and ingredients.
3. Make one trip to the grocery store
This one should be easy - it just requires some good planning and making a list. Try to avoid all those last minute trips in your car to pick up forgotten items - it nat sound small, but it will actually make a difference. I've definitely had those Thanksgivings where I've gone to the store 3 times on the same day!
4. Use cloth napkins
If you don't have them already; a fun way to build your napkin collection is to collect vintage napkins or make them yourself. If you are the slightest bit crafty - making your own napkins can be simple and easy. This is a great project to do with the family too. Check out Design*Sponge on DIY cloth napkins and explore My Inspiration Lounge - Find Your Inner Artist for more inspiring ideas!
5. Drink organic wine
Organic wines just keep getting better with more affordable options available. One site that delivers straight to your door is The Organic Wine Company. Check out other organic wines options found at My Inspiration Lounge - Become An Eco-Shopper.
6. Don’t use a disposable turkey pan
This year buy a Turkey pan – think of how much less will be added to landfills each year if we all do this. This doesn’t have to be expensive either; you could easily find this at your local thrift shop.
7. Plant a Tree
Show your thanks by planting a tree or helping heal the ocean. It's especially important to contribute in slow economic times so these organizations can keep making progress. Your contribution doesn't have to be large - you and your family can contribute $10 and plant 10 trees with the Nature Conservancy's Plant a Billion campaign. Or find a cause where you and your family have a special connection. Here are a few to start with...Plant A Billion Trees, Heal The Ocean, and Cousteau Society. Find more inspiring ways to Be An Activist at My Inspiration Lounge.
8. Don't buy plastic or throw-away decorations
Decorations create a festive and special mood at this time of the year. However, this year in particular, is a good time to save money and minimize buying more 'stuff'. Look to decorate with leaves that have fallen in your yard, pictures drawn by your children, paper turkey napkin rings.
9. If you go disposable, go bamboo
If for some reason you need to do paper plates for your meal and all the servings of pie that follow then use bamboo instead of paper. Items made out of bamboo are not only better for us but they have more style too! Most grocery stores now carry bamboo plates. If you can't find them in your local area, check out re:modern for fun bamboo options.
10. Clean Green
Use non-toxic cleaning supplies for all the cleaning up, not only is it better for the environment but it’s better for you and all your helpers. Here’s a helpful and thorough run-down by Renee Loux's Euphoric Organics on green cleaning solutions to the rescue.
"Now I see the secret of
the making of the best persons.
It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the
earth."
Walt Whitman (1819 - 1892), Song of the Open Road
