Happy "Sustainable" Holidays!

Entering into the holidays might not seem like the best time to focus on sustainability. But as we prepare to bring loved ones into our homes for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's--now is actually the perfect time to effect change by sharing our environmental ethos with those we care about most.

In practical terms, the way you make an impact shows up in the way you shop, cook, and spend time together (before and after the delicious trays are set out and cleaned up). It also comes to light in the way you give gifts.

By making sustainable choices now, instead of waiting for the new year, your good intentions will act as motivational catalysts. In a nutshell, keep embracing sustainable lifestyle habits during the holidays (think ahead if you're opting for homemade).

So, with zero guilt on the serving platter--but with spoonfuls of encouragement instead--let's get started. Here are three earth-friendly suggestions for how you can make sustainable choices over the upcoming winter holidays to honor the land and local habitats in your area.

1) First, focus on shopping locally. This can feel challenging since the price of groceries has gone up in recent months. But, by planning ahead, you should still have time to stop by your local farmer's market. Some great seasonal items to stock up on include winter fruits like oranges, apples, pears, and pomegranates.

Don't forget your veggies either, like fresh and healthy celery stalks, potatoes, and carrots. Kale, spinach, brussel sprouts, turnips, and winter squash make great add-ons as well. Plus, a few fresh herbs that best express your cooking preferences: like sage, rosemary, and parsley. Shopping locally cuts down on supply chain demands and supports the regional farmers in your area. Plus--it all tastes fresher too!

2) Second, if possible--consider buying your turkey, ham, steak, and eggs from a local farmer. *This could also be from your farmer's market, of course. But you might consider that farm you're always passing by on your way to check off errands (that your friend often suggests--but you forget about placing an order until it's too late). You can also check with your traditional grocery stores to see who is selling these items from farmers in your area.

If you live in a rural region, consider doing a produce/egg/meat swap with local neighbors and friends. Who doesn't love fresh eggs in exchange for a half-dozen freshly picked oranges or pomegranates? Or, if you love baking--consider swapping a few pies for a friend's basketful of nutrient rich garden produce. This is a win for you and a win for the planet.

3) Third, when it comes to wine, it's tempting to buy the less expensive super-chain option with more people around your table. But, try to support your local wineries if your budget allows for this. Keep in mind how the price often comes down a bit when you're buying in bulk. Sometimes, there's a discount with just three or more bottles. But often, the deeper discount comes when you buy a case, ranging from 10% to 25% off depending on the winery.

A sustainable gifting option could be a membership to a smaller winery to encourage local vintners in your area. If you're not into wine, this could also apply to local breweries and distilleries (for whiskey, gin, or vodka).

Consider shopping at artisan markets throughout the holidays--supporting local crafters for handmade goods (gifted inside of a reusable tote bag). This could include decorative artwork, candles, jewelry, and clothing items. Or unique pieces of household pottery and native plants. One last thought: How about buying gift cards or memberships to your local botanic gardens, museums, or art galleries? Music, dance, or language lessons from a local instructor work great too.

Since I promised to keep it short, I'm closing with a love-the-earth wish for the merriest of holidays to you and your loved ones. Thanks for supporting Green Idea Labs.

Founder: Dianne Bright