Xmas Gifts and Projects
A Bright Idea
One simple way to green your life is recommended all the time: replace incandescent bulbs with energy and dollar saving compact florescents. The problem: compact florescents cost significantly more than regular bulbs. The solution? Ask for them for Christmas! A single bulb may cost $4-$7 depending on the size and they are often packaged, like incandescent bulbs, in sets of 4 or more — making this a perfect low-cost gift– one that saves money for both the giver and the receiver.
Watches are classic holiday gift2– but this one comes with an eco-twist: it runs on sunlight or artificial light, so you never need a battery! Men’s and women’s versions.
Another great, green gift is an old fashioned seltzer bottle. These are available for $50-60 — sometimes less.
Making your own sodas and sparkling water is easy. A green idea that saves money as well!
Few things are worse for the environment than batteries thrown in the trash. Keep your batteries out of landfills and the heavy metals they contain out of the water supply: buy rechargeable batteries. And what better recharger for your batteries than one powered by the sun? Solar-powered battery chargers are available in a variety of sizes and price ranges.
Here is a small, inexpensive one from Amazon:
One of the most problematic areas for the environment is paper. Reading e-books saves paper, but many people have trouble reading longer works on a computer screen. Now there’s a solution. The new kindle from amazon is about the size of a paperback and just as easy on the eyes.
Looking for green toys for kids this Christmas? Check these out:
Windmill Kit. Teaches kits how wind can be used to generate electricity.
Here’s another kit– this one for solar energy.
And a general science kit:
Kids learn energy-saving tips with this deck of cards. Part of the profits go to support the Sierra Club.
This adorable hairy-eared dwarf lemur, along with cards showing other native animals of Madagascar, is a fair trade product. (Note: not recommended for children younger than three.)
May all your holidays be green and merry!
Please visit Green Home Projects for useful articles on making your home greener.
