Daily Greenz #165

Now that you’ve finally selected a gift that does Dad justice, it’s time to wrap that package up in paper so appealing he can’t wait to see what’s underneath it. Hopefully you’ve gotten him something both he and the environment will appreciate – and if that’s the case, what you’ll be wrapping it in can’t be overlooked. As is ever the case, the greenest option for gift wrap is to use something you’ve already got – and we don’t mean that sparkly stuff left over from the holidays.

Try covering your present with newspaper – the funnies, the sports section, or Dad’s favorite column. Old comic books or magazines work too.  But if the homemade look of those options leaves you unimpressed, not to worry – there’s no need to buy a roll of wrapping paper. Instead, try a paper that doesn’t rely on destroying trees. We like Natural Elements Handmade Recycled Paper Gift Wrap – it’s hand made from shredded tree bark and colored with non-toxic dyes, and has an elegant, unique look.

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Daily Greenz #66

With 25% more waste being generated during the holidays, we suggest a couple of simple ways that you can help to reduce unnecessary trash during the gift-giving season. For one, since shopping bags and wrapping paper alone contribute four million tons of garbage during the month of December, be sure to bring your own shopping bag to the mall and buy online, package-less gifts like downloads from iTunes.

If you can’t do without gift-wrapping, consider using re-usable shopping bags, design magazines, or leftover wallpaper. Another alternative is Gaiam’s Seed Gift Wrap, made entirely from biodegradable paper and embedded with wildflower seeds. Rather than tossing it, the recipient can plant it and have beautiful blossoms by the spring. Find out more at gaiam.com . For tree-less options, Fish Lips Paper Designs offers wrapping paper that’s made with 100% post-consumer recycled paper and soy-based inks. Available for $4.00 a sheet at fishlipspaperdesigns.com .

Generic e-cards are a thing of the past. Opt to send free, customized e-cards this year with One True Media, which allows you to upload your own pictures, music, and videos for a truly personalized effect. Still feel an itch to send the real thing? Cradle to Cradle produces creative, tree-free
cards that can be recycled as carpet backing by being returned to Shaw
Industries. Available for $35 a set at reproduct.net.

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