Christmas comes but once a year, but this traditional period of excess and decadence is often a prime time for even the most eco-friendly people to forget themselves in the hectic run up to the festive season.
But it's not difficult to have a green Christmas without spoiling anyone's fun, so here are a few suggestions to help keep the environment 'on the list' whilst still making merry! A great deal of waste is generated at Christmas time with mountains of cards and wrapping paper discarded every New Year.
Reduce the impact of this deluge of paper by opting for recycled cards and wrapping paper, reusing them wherever possible (for example as next year's gift tags or for children's drawings), and recycling or composting anything that's left.
Also try not to buy too much food by carefully planning what is required.
It can be difficult to cater for larger numbers but make sure that any leftovers are used up rather than thrown away and be sure to compost waste food products.
On the subject of food, try to buy organic, locally-sourced Christmas fare as much as possible.
Not only will you be helping the local economy but also the environment, both in terms of the benefits of organic production and the fewer food miles required to bring the produce to your table.
There is even plenty of organic alcohol available now, so you can get into the party spirit with a clear conscience.
If you are going for a real tree, go for one from a local, sustainable source and either replant it or have it composted when you take it down.
And go easy on the Christmas lights.
For those you do have, make sure you use a timer so that they are just on for a few hours in the evening rather than all day and night.
When it comes to gifts, be thoughtful in your purchases.
There are wide ranges of products which are organically produced, fairly traded, recycling and/or from sustainable sources, so you can help the planet as well as give generously!Internet shopping can cut down on travel when it comes to the shopping itself, or alternatively, if you are driving to the shopping centre, try and get all your present buying into one or two shopping trips rather than lots of small ones.
And don't overlook charity shops.
You could pick up some real bargains and be recycling in the process! Christmas should certainly be enjoyed, but this does not have to be to the detriment of the environment.
By bearing in mind these green tips, you can have a fantastic festive season as well as do you bit to help the planet.