In the days of online socializing, getting a card or letter in the mail—finding something other than bills or flyers in your mailbox—can be a real treat.
The Greeting Card Association website states that Americans buy 1.6 billion Christmas cards each year. This would require harvesting roughly 300,000 trees.
Here are some eco-friendly ways to share good wishes this season.
1. Make Your Own Card With Recycled Material
Making your own cards is more personal and it can be a fun holiday activity for the whole family. You can use paper grocery bags, old cards, and a variety of other reusable materials.Here’s some inspiration and an example of what kinds of suitable materials you can find around your house.
On the flip side, here’s a tutorial on how to make ornaments out of old holiday cards.
2. Buy Eco-Friendly Cards
If you aren’t the crafty type or you don’t have the time to make cards, you can buy eco-friendly cards instead.Look for cards that use soy ink, recycled paper, or post-consumer recycled paper. Also choose the smaller-sized cards.
Here are some websites that sell eco-friendly cards.
She’s Batty Design also sells eco-friendly cards on Etsy.
It may not be quite as special as getting a card in the mail, but it is nice on the environment.
Jacquie Lawson cards are not free, but they are classy and often bring the recipient a moment of peace. Many e-cards such as Hallmark eCards are free, and others cost about a dollar or more. Here are some other options for e-cards:
MORE GREEN CHRISTMAS IDEAS:
*Image of a homemade card via Shutterstock
