How to Have a Green Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, itâ€™s time to celebrate. And we should be grateful for the beautiful planet we live on and express our gratitude by taking steps to ensure we have a green Thanksgiving in 2011. Here are a few tips on how to do that.

Go vegetarian and local: Animal farming is one of the biggest sources of carbon emissions, especially via factory farming. And most turkeys killed for Thanksgiving are raised on factory farms, where they have to endure grim conditions. It just doesnâ€™t fit in with the spirit of the holiday. The Huffington Post has a fabulous post on delicious cruelty-free recipes for the holiday. Besides, keep it local by sourcing your ingredients from a local, farmersâ€™ market.

Keep it understated: Getting together with people is about sharing, not showing off expensive wares or making too much food. Use what you have in your house, and use natural materials to decorate the house instead of buying more plastic and toxic junk from China. You may use the occasion to practice your recyling skills and have some fun in the process. If you do need to buy something, get it from a second-hand store.

Take a train: If you are going to travel for the holiday, consider travelling by train instead of flying. Our carbon footprint is lower when we choose rail travel.

Use a LED candle: Conventional candles are petroleum-based, so add a touch of alternative energy to the celebration by using a LED candle. This pumpkin spiced candle with optional timer is a great alternative. It is also safer because it doesnâ€™t get hot and will last over 50,000 hours so you will be able to use it over and over again.

Have a great, green Thanksgiving!

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