Creating a truly “Green” Holiday Season

The arrival of the holiday season "brings out the best in all of us." At least that is what we like to tell ourselves. The truth is that the holidays are a time of mass consumerism and waste. A clear example of our society's inability to cope with growing environmental concerns is evident in the tradition of giving gifts. According to a report published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the United States generated over 232 million tons of municipal solid waste in the year 2000. However, most of us refer to our municipal solid waste as "trash." Yet, most of the materials that we place into the "trash" receptacle are reusable products. Shortly after, all of these materials join the permanent "family" of our land waste dump sites. My family practices the reuse of wrapping paper across many years of gift exchange. In addition, the tradition of throwing out old toys is hardly a practical method, therefore I donate my unwanted goods to those in need.

The holiday season is often referred to as a "time of giving." And yet, we must ask ourselves what it is that we are giving to one another? Gifts are purchased without any distinct need, but merely off of our personal predispositions to expensive goods that catch interests. One of the most popular gift ideas are electronics and clothing. These gifts are then packaged in cardboard boxes and plastic sheets for protection. At long last, the holidays are upon us and, just as quickly as we tear apart the wrapping paper and boxes, these useful materials are carelessly tossed aside. What is unbeknownst to most people is that these materials don't simply disappear. Instead, they sit in our landfills.

Municipal Solid Waste is often filled with toxic pollutants. The sheet plastic and wrapping paper is non biodegradable. However, this does not encompass the entirety of the story. In fact, all of the curbside trash must be transported to the landfills using gas powered automobiles. Of course, the Carbon Dioxide emanating from these monstrous vehicles contributes to the ever deteriorating status of the Earth's ozone layer. In addition to the expanded energy production, rapid CH 4 emission output increases as many objects sit idly in the landfills, incapable of a rapid decomposition. The season of giving also gives our entire planet a push in the direction towards rapid ozone depletion and rapid climate change.

So, what can be done to reverse the trend? Individuals must exercise personal responsibility in ensuring the sustainable "green" practices of the holiday season. Rather than tossing out seemingly useless materials, be sure to find ways to either reuse or donate items that you no longer desire. Also, the next trip to the mall could certainly be an enjoyable experience by taking the bus or train, instead of driving. Even carpooling assists in the fight against global warming. When it comes to the gifts that you plan to purchase, be sure to use the items that are not encased in a solid block of plastic. Lastly, consider using reusable packaging displays, such as a holiday gift bag. In the end, the simple practice of reducing what you buy, reusing what you have, and recycling what you no longer need will be an excellent gift to the world this holiday season.

Commentary by Nick

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