Christmas is a holiday noted for conspicuous consumption, and many people tend to give themselves a break from responsible living around that time, but there are numerous ways to introduce conservation and recycling into your holiday habits. And perhaps your green holiday spirit will rub off on your loved ones.
Here are a few ideas to get your started:

• Christmas cards: Let’s face it, sending Christmas cards has gone the way of the dinosaur by now, but some people are still keeping the tradition alive. Maybe this year it’s time to upgrade – and save – by sending e-cards to your loved ones with computers. And for the cards you must mail out, make sure to buy recycled. Also, reuse holiday cards you receive to make gift tags.
• Wrapping paper: Before you buy a dozen rolls of decorative wrapping paper – again this year – close your eyes and envision the multiple plastic garbage bags overflowing with wadded up present wrapping in your living room on Christmas morning. That should put you in the spirit of giving back to our planet.
  So put down the reams of paper and think fabric. Get Christmas fabric at any fabric store and cut it to length with pinking shears (so they don’t ravel) to wrap smaller gifts. The fabric wraps can be used year after year.
  Too much work? Start small and start using decorative bags rather than paper. Once presents are delivered, the bags can be stuck back in the closet and saved for next year. Also, offer to take home any unwanted bags and reusable wrapping from your Christmas parties if it looks like they’ll just get thrown away.
  And when it comes to sending presents through the mail, instead of using Styrofoam to keep the packages safe and secure, use dry pasta or fill from old pillows. Reusable cloths could also be used.
• Buy local: Skip the big box stores and you’ll be saving tons on packaging and transportation costs, plus giving your local businesses a holiday boost. Buy gifts made from recycled materials whenever possible, or from eco-friendly businesses and Fair Trade stores. And think about making an eco-aware donation on a gift recipient’s behalf.
• Oldies are goodies: Some of the best gifts are those things that have a little character, and that don’t come from a bright, shiny new box. So this year, buy antiques, early edition books or vintage jewelry. Consider handing down that family heirloom that’s been hiding in your attic. Get out to estate sales, flea markets and local craft fairs, or thrift stores. Many towns host craft fairs between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Also, try shopping around your home:

• Give handmade or found gifts. Seashells from a beach vacation earlier in the year, a song, a poem, or a handknit scarf are all priceless gifts.
• Collaborate with family members to create a family recipe book you can give to everyone in your clan.
• Reprint a favorite family photo and have it framed.
• Research your family history and create a family tree.
• Make a “Greatest Hits” album for everyone on your list. Find songs that will evoke special memories for your friends and family.
• Make seasonal cookies, cakes, or breads and give the recipe, too.
• Make your own soap, paper, or candles with directions from craft sites.