7 Ways to Have a Greener Holiday

David Garrison
Dec 11, 2025
3 min read

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle… Happy Holidays!

Festive Christmas tree with red and gold ornaments, surrounded by greenery and presents. A bright red sleigh adds holiday cheer.

Now more than ever, we’re aware of how our daily choices impact both our environment and each other. From reducing commutes to lowering fuel consumption to simplifying our work wardrobes and cutting back on fast fashion, we’re learning that small habits can make a big difference.

The holidays are no exception. In fact, this season is one of the easiest—and most meaningful—times to practice sustainability. By reducing our consumption, getting creative with what we already have, and choosing reusable or recyclable options, we give our wallets and our planet a little extra breathing room.

Here are 7 simple, thoughtful ways you can make a positive environmental impact this holiday season:

1. Recycle Your Christmas Tree

If you're going with a real tree this year, be sure it’s fully bare before recycling. No lights, ornaments, stands, or tinsel. We’ve put together a full guide on tree recycling in the DFW area and surrounding cities—so when the season winds down, we’ve got you covered.

2. Cancel the Tinsel

For real—skip it. Tinsel can’t be recycled, clogs machinery, creates microplastics, and poses a serious danger to household pets. The shine isn’t worth the risk. Opt for natural garlands, wooden beads, popcorn strings, or fabric ribbons instead.

3. Try a Potted Pine

If you’ve got outdoor space, consider celebrating with a small live potted pine. Enjoy it indoors for up to two weeks, then move it outside until planting season. Just be sure to choose a species native to North Texas so it thrives in our climate.

4. Skip Plastic Curling Ribbon

Twine, jute, cotton yarn, and biodegradable ribbon make beautiful alternatives—and they break down naturally over time. Plastic ribbon? Not so much. A rustic, simple twine bow can be just as festive and far friendlier to the earth.

5. Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle Your Decorations

Before heading to the store for new décor, take a look around your home. Old holiday cards can be turned into gift tags. Paper bags can become wrapping paper. Glass jars can become candle holders, snow globes, or kitchen displays. Creating decorations together becomes a family moment and a sustainable tradition.

6. Create Your Own Centerpieces

Bring the outdoors in—pinecones, evergreen clippings, branches, dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, and candles can create beautiful, natural centerpieces. They look amazing, smell incredible, and won’t end up in a landfill.

7. Reuse Ribbons & Bows

Remember your grandma saving bows in a big bag each year? Turns out she was onto something. Reusing bows and ribbons not only saves money—it cuts down on waste. A tiny piece of double-sided tape can give a bow a whole new life.

Bonus Tips for an Even Greener Holiday

Because this season gives us countless opportunities to reduce our footprint:

Use LED Christmas lights — they use up to 90% less energy.
Donate unwanted items before the new gifts arrive—clear space and help someone in need.
Bring reusable bags when gift shopping—less plastic, less waste.
Recycle cardboard boxes the right way—break them down and keep them dry.