It’s the time of year when the streets are lit with dazzling and often complex displays of holiday lights, set alongside festive holiday decorations celebrating the season. But while they’re undoubtedly beautiful, many large seasonal displays aren’t particularly eco- friendly for a variety of reasons. From energy usage to the potential for cheap décor to end up in a landfill, there are a lot of potential hazards – but it doesn’t have to be that way. Read on as we explore some of the best options for, sustainable lights and decorations that will still help create that holiday cheer.
LED Lights: Energy-Efficient and Eco-Friendly for the Holidays
It’s time to replace those old incandescent holiday lights that have been sitting in the garage or attic for years (or maybe even longer.) Modern holiday lights are made with LED bulbs instead, which use significantly less energy to provide the same amount of light, in part because they channel their power solely into illumination, while old-school versions waste some of it as heat. In many cases, decorators can power their holiday displays for an entire season with the same amount of energy used for just a few days of incandescent bulbs. In addition, LED bulbs last far longer, meaning your investment in new lights will last for many years to come if properly cared for.
Looking for eco-conscious LED holiday lights? Check out local businesses like Pittsburgh Candle Works (@PGHCandleWorks) and Steel City Salt Company (@SteelCitySalt) for unique holiday-themed LED candle lights and sustainable salt crystal decorations.
Long-Lasting Sustainable Decorations: Eco-Conscious Choices
All too many people approach holiday decorations as a one-off situation, buying cheap, low-quality items that either can’t be or won’t be worth saving for future celebrations once the season has passed. Unfortunately, the vast majority of this stuff ends up in a landfill, where plastics and synthetic materials take tens or hundreds of years to biodegrade. By searching for higher-quality options that can last multiple years, decorators can help reduce their environmental impact, not to mention save time and money in future years by avoiding more trips to the store.
Natural Decor: A and Earth-Friendly Holiday Option
Want to go a step further toward a holiday season? Use the festive, all-natural options that may be as close as your backyard. Pine cones, evergreen branches, holly, and other similar choices can provide the atmosphere you’re looking for and can safely be disposed of or composted once January rolls around. The best part? In many cases, they’re free right in the great outdoors. Even those who need to purchase them will likely find better deals than highly-marked-up factory-made alternatives.
For ideas on incorporating natural elements into your holiday decorations, consider visiting local businesses like The Shop at Phipps, nestled in the Welcome Center of Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (@phippsconservatory). This shop offers plant-friendly gifts, including gardening supplies, hand-crafted home décor, eco-friendly toys, custom jewelry, and items made by local artists and designers.
Celebrate a Happy and Holiday Season with Eco-Friendly Décor
There’s no need for holiday decorations to have a negative impact on the environment. From updated lighting and power sources to alternative decorations, it’s easier than ever to go, even if the ground is covered in snow. Keep these ideas in mind, and you’ll provide a present to the planet, not just your loved ones, this holiday season.
