During the holiday season, it is a tradition to give and receive gifts, share homemade treats, and decorate our homes to celebrate this special time of year. According to the EPA, waste disposal typically increases by 25% around the holidays. We've curated a list of helpful tips to make your holidays more sustainable, produce less waste, and connect with others in a more creative and unique way.

1. Make your own wrapping paper from old newsprint, recycled wrapping, reused gift bags or old clothing. Or make reusable gift bags from fabric scraps.

2. Make handmade gifts, such as soy candles scented with essential oils, (even better, use recycled glass jars).

3. Mount pressed flowers onto cardstock for homemade cards.

4. Give home-baked goods wrapped in hand-embroidered upcycled cloth.

5. If you have knitting or sewing skills, give a handmade gift that will mean so much to the person receiving it.

6. Spend time instead of money. Watch a sunset (they are particularly beautiful this time of year in the Southland) or cook a meal together (just be sure to compost those leftovers!). Or give a “gift certificate” for a chore or outing.

7. Make wind chimes from driftwood, seashells, or other things found in nature.

8. Make a collage of photos of you and your loved ones and frame it with an old frame from a thrift shop, viola!

9. Find a unique jar, mug, cup, or bowl and fill it with a succulent or herb.

10. Consider volunteering for or donating something to a local charity.

We are often pressured to think that giving a gift is a necessary part of the holiday season. But giving and receiving is not just based off material exchange. The spirit of goodwill, kindness, and gratitude last much longer than that little trinket purchased in haste or obligation. Get creative! Happy Holidays!!