Go green this holiday season without going in the red

You can help others this holiday season without breaking your budget. From planning your holiday meals so there aren’t excess leftovers to donating unwanted electronics to local charities, there are many ways you can save money and protect the environment.

The holidays present opportunities to reduce waste, reuse items, and recycle products instead of disposing of them. Here are a few ways that you can practice the three “R’s” to make this a green holiday season:

– Share the good tidings: Make room for new gadgets by donating your unwanted electronics. Used electronics that are still operating can be given to community groups, local schools, or nonprofit organizations. Some donations may qualify for a tax deduction.

– Shop smart: Carry a reusable tote when out shopping. Look for gifts made with recycled material and that have less packaging. Buy green electronic products.

– Look for opportunities to extend the life of old items: Why spring for a new family computer when you can upgrade your existing one? Borrow or rent certain party goods instead of purchasing new ones. If you are preparing for the upcoming digital TV transition, extend the life of your current TV by purchasing a converter box.

‘Tis the season for giving, and if you’re in the process of shopping for a car or light truck this year, EPA can help. Environmentally friendly vehicles come in all shapes and sizes, and there are some simple ways to find the best one for your family. There are also easy ways to improve your fuel economy, regardless of what model sleigh you drive.

– When shopping for a car, go to EPA’s Green Vehicle Guide to look for vehicles that earned EPA’s SmartWay designation, meaning that they are among the cleanest, most fuel-efficient available; and

– As you do your holiday shopping, be sure to maximize your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by combining trips, driving gently, and keeping your car well-maintained. [B][I](EPA)[/I][/B] [B]ON THE NET[/B] [I] Tips on reducing holiday waste: http://epa.gov/osw/wycd/funfacts/winter.htm

Resources to help you donate or recycle electronics: http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/donate.htm

Green Vehicle guide: http://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles

Gas mileage tips: http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/drive.shtml

To see how others are being green and to let us know what you’re doing this holiday season:

http://blog.epa.gov/blog/2008/11/26/more-holiday-cheer-less-holiday-waste/ [/I]