Embracing Sustainable Celebrations

Americans collectively throw out one million tons of trash every week between Thanksgiving and New Year's. That's 25% more on average than any other week of the year. We desire to spend this time gathering with loved ones to remember with gladness and thanksgiving the goodness that fills our collective life. Yet, our cultural experience of this festival season more aptly reflects a time of frenetic activity marked by overconsumption, over-spending and over-reaching boundaries.GIPL has consolidated some sustainable tips so that we can return to what matters most this time of year: celebrating the goodness found in our relationships with others and with our Earth. Winter Solstice1) Rely on the natural rhythm of light and dark and fast from electricity use for one day.2) Enjoy a potluck meal with friends, encouraging a menu of local, seasonal foods.3) Take a walk outside in nature with lanterns.Hanukkah1) Use environmentally sustainable candles, like beeswax or soy wax and oil.2) Green your Hanukkah decorations, like crafting a dreidel out of recyclable materials.3) After lighting your menorah each evening, dedicate yourself to being more environmentally aware and enacting food and energy justice.Christmas1) When purchasing gifts, buy fair-trade, sustainably-sourced and/or locally sourced items.2) Purchase your holiday tree from a local Christmas tree farm, if you even must have a tree. Better yet, consider making your own wreaths and sashes from the greenery scraps left behind by Christmas tree lots and other greenery found in your yard.3) Do one less thing this holiday season - one less party, one less decoration.Kwanzaa1) Purchase locally grown or organic food for the feasts.2) Make your own decorations. Place mats can be crafted with woven straw or other natural materials.3) Candles for the kinara can be made out of beeswax or soy instead of paraffin. Make your own or look for handmade ones!New Year's1) Serve organic and local food and beverages.2) Decorate with natural materials instead of plastic; don't use disposable party decor or favors.3) Don't over-consume and do commit to not wasting food.Our celebrations always can reflect our year-long commitment to Creation care and sustainability.